New funding to help Sask. workers adapt to trade impacts

The provincial and federal governments are trying to help Saskatchewan workers affected by ongoing tariff disputes.

The federal and provincial government are investing $15.6 million to help Saskatchewan workers affected by global tariffs to retain and find new job opportunities.

The funding, announced through the Canada–Saskatchewan Workforce Tariff Response, will be delivered over three years and is expected to support up to 1,800 workers.

“In this case Saskatchewan, getting their allocation, they then determine which sectors and how they respond to it,” said Secretary of Rural Development Buckley Belanger at the funding announcement in Prince Albert. “And of course, they report back to us and that’s very helpful and it’s a very respectful relationship.”

This investment will focus on those in the steel and softwood lumber sectors, as well as other industries impacted by shifting global trade conditions.

“Canada’s workforce is strongest when employers and training partners work together. As global trade evolves, no worker will be left behind,” said Minister of Jobs and Families Patty Hajdu.

“Through the workforce tariff response, that means providing the tools and training workers need to secure good jobs, continue building strong communities, and ensure Canada remains resilient in the face of global challenges.”

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Supports will be offered through SaskJobs offices and training partners across the province, helping unemployed workers gain skills for in-demand jobs, assisting those in Employment Insurance work-sharing programs, and providing training for employees in affected industries.

“Saskatchewan is committed to protecting our economy despite uncertain global conditions,” said Eric Schmalz, Saskatchewan minister of immigration and career training.

“While Saskatchewan’s market and trade diversification has lessened the impact of global tariffs, we are happy to partner with the federal government to take a proactive approach to protecting Saskatchewan from potential risks to our economy, our labour market and our people.”

The program is funded through Employment Insurance contributions and aims to help workers return to the labour market more quickly. It builds on more than $65 million in annual federal funding for training and employment services in Saskatchewan, which supports about 32,000 people each year.

Officials say the agreement will also help prepare workers for emerging opportunities tied to major national initiatives, while strengthening the province’s workforce during a period of global economic uncertainty.

As of February 2026, Saskatchewan’s unemployment rate sits at 5.6 per cent, the lowest among provinces and below the national average.