Reviewer named for the Ontario College of Trades

Oct. 24, 2014 – Ontario is appointing former Secretary of Cabinet and Head of the Ontario Public Service, Tony Dean, to review key areas of the province’s skilled trades system that fall within the mandate of the Ontario College of Trades.

Dean will build on the College’s success by reviewing issues related to the scopes of practice — or type of work performed in a trade — as well as the process for determining whether certification should be compulsory or voluntary to practice a trade. The trade classification review process will be paused during Dean’s work. The College will continue to fulfill its mandate while this work is underway.

Dean will consult with stakeholders and receive support from the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities and the College of Trades, but will function independently of both. The appointment begins in October 2014 and will continue for one calendar year. Dean will then deliver his report to the College of Trades and the ministry. The College will have the opportunity to review his findings and implement key recommendations.

“It is a privilege to be asked to take on this important independent review. I am looking forward to hearing from and talking to the organizations and individuals who have ideas and proposals on the areas encompassed by my terms of reference,” said Tony Dean, Ontario College of Trades reviewer. “I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing development of the College of Trades’ mandate and its role in strengthening the apprenticeship system and skilled trades in Ontario.”