OTTAWA — As the federal election campaign gains momentum, the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers Canada has officially endorsed Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre in his bid to become prime minister.
In a letter of support, Arnie Stadnick, vice-president of the Boilermakers, praised Poilievre’s commitment to Canadian workers, highlighting his recently announced “Boots not Suits” program.
“This plan will fund apprentice training and facilities, improve safety, and help workers move more easily across Canada to where jobs are available,” Stadnick wrote. “It aims to strengthen Canada’s workforce and reduce dependence on foreign labour by adding 350,000 Canadian workers to job sites over the next five years.”
At a recent press conference, Poilievre detailed his plan, which promises direct apprenticeship grants of up to $4,000, accelerated access to employment insurance for apprentices, and federal funding for skills-training facilities. The initiative also aims to harmonize health and safety rules across provinces, making it easier for tradespeople to work nationwide.
Poilievre said the program’s goal is to boost pay for Canadian workers while reducing the country’s reliance on the U.S. economy.
The Boilermakers Union, representing 12,000 workers across Canada, includes members from construction, shipbuilding, energy production, and manufacturing sectors.