NOMA expresses support for new Ontario labour laws

The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA) is celebrating a new set of Ontario labour laws that will make it easier for out-of-province professionals to work in Ontario.

The new “As of Right” labour mobility rules, which took effect on January 1, allow certified professionals from other provinces across numerous industries to begin working in Ontario within ten business days, and for up to six months, while they wait for their full provincial registration.

NOMA has pointed out that in northwestern Ontario, labour shortages represent a significant challenge, particularly for small communities.

“Northern and Northwestern Ontario communities depend on a mobile, skilled workforce,” says NOMA president Rick Dumas. “Removing unnecessary barriers that prevent qualified workers from getting to work quickly helps employers fill urgent vacancies, supports regional economic growth, and strengthens community resilience across our region.”

The municipal association has also praised the provincial effort to reduce trade barriers between provinces, through a new law to recognize other provinces’ regulatory requirements, and vice versa, which could reduce or eliminate redundancy in the process of moving goods and services across provincial borders.

A full list of changes to Ontario’s laws and regulations in effect as of the new year can be viewed on the provincial government website.