ST. JOHN'S, N.L. -- Apprentices will find it easier to move between the provinces and territories while they are doing their training under an agreement signed by the premiers on Thursday.
Premier Paul Davis of Newfoundland and Labrador says the agreement, which takes effect in January, will help Canada build an educated and skilled workforce.
Nova Scotia has been among the provinces pushing for the changes, which it says will recognize the technical training and relevant hours that are needed by an apprentice to complete their training regardless of where it is done in the country.
Students who graduate from pre-apprenticeship training programs will also get full recognition.
Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil says the agreement will help employers find the skilled workers they need and make it easier for people who have left the province to begin an apprenticeship program elsewhere and want to return home to complete their training.
He said people are leaving the province for job opportunities and the new protocol is a step forward for the province.
"People aren't leaving our province because they want to," McNeil added.
