“As the union whose members power Canada’s grid, IBEW Canada welcomes Federal Budget 2026’s investments in Canada’s electrification strategy and the extension of the Clean Electricity and Clean Technology Investment Tax Credits. The prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements tied to these incentives put workers at the centre of Canada’s energy future, supporting fair wages, skilled trades training and good-paying Canadian jobs. IBEW members are ready to help build the infrastructure that will power our country for generations to come.”
 | MATTHEW WAYLAND International Vice President IBEW First District, Canada |
IBEW Canada Statement
IBEW Canada International Vice President Matthew Wayland issued the following statement on Federal Budget 2026.
“As the union whose members power Canada’s grid, we welcome Budget 2026’s focus on strengthening Canada’s electricity system, supporting Canadian industries and investing in skilled trades. These measures can create good-paying jobs and strengthen communities across the country.
“The government’s broader $115 billion electrification plan, supported by the National Electricity Strategy, aims to double Canada’s electricity supply by 2050. Achieving this goal will require major investments in power generation and transmission infrastructure. IBEW members already build, operate and maintain these systems. We know what it takes to get the job done.
“We particularly welcome the extension of the Clean Electricity and Clean Technology Investment Tax Credits through 2040. The prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements tied to these incentives help ensure that federal investments support fair wages, skilled trades training and the workers delivering these projects.
“Budget 2026 also supports nuclear development, critical minerals, forestry, manufacturing and housing. Combined with the government’s continued $6 billion commitment to skilled trades and apprenticeships, these measures can strengthen Canadian industries and build the workforce needed to support them.
“We welcome the direction outlined in this budget and look forward to working with government and industry to turn these commitments into good-paying Canadian jobs, meaningful apprenticeship opportunities, safe workplaces and respect for collective agreements.
“IBEW members are ready to help build Canada’s future. We will continue standing up for our members and ensuring these investments deliver lasting benefits for workers, their families and communities across the country.”
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The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW ) First District (Canada) represents over 71,000 active members in Canada who work in a wide variety of fields, including construction, utilities, manufacturing, telecommunications, broadcasting, railroads and government.