News

Building on a government commitment made earlier this year, Canada is rolling out the final phase of its biometrics collection program.

As of today, foreign nationals applying from within Canada for temporary or permanent residence, or to extend or renew their visitor visa or work or study permit, will need to have their fingerprints and photo taken and can do so at any of the 58 designated Service Canada locations across the country. This means individuals will now save time and money by being able to give their biometrics within Canada.

Ontario will reward its safest employers with an estimated $140 million for excellence in occupational health and safety as part of a first-of-its-kind in Canada program unveiled today.

The program, Supporting Ontario's Safe Employers, will formally recognize employers who successfully implement health and safety programs in their workplaces. The financial rewards will come in the form of Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) rebates over a three-year period.

As part of its comprehensive plan to end hallway health care, Ontario is investing in programs that keep seniors healthy in their communities longer.

Each year in Ontario, preventable dental issues like gum disease, infections and chronic pain lead to more than 60,000 emergency department visits by patients, of which a significant portion are seniors. Many low-income seniors face challenges accessing regular dental care because they cannot afford it, impacting their overall well-being.

Ontario's Government is tackling shortages in the skilled trades by announcing $20.8 million in spending to attract more people to the trades and boost Ontario's skilled workforce.

The Government will increase spending on Ontario's Pre-Apprenticeship Training program by $2.5 million this year, giving an additional 200 people exposure to good jobs. The program is free for participants and always includes a work placement.