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Letter to Atlantic Premiers Re: Mutual Health and Safety Credential Recognition in Atlantic Canada
March 10, 2026
The Honourable Tim Houston
Premier of Nova Scotia
Chair, Council of Atlantic Premiers
The Honourable Susan Holt
Premier of New Brunswick
The Honourable Tony Wakeham
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
The Honourable Rob Lantz
Premier of Prince Edward Island
Re: Mutual Health and Safety Credential Recognition in Atlantic Canada
Dear Atlantic Premiers,
The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce writes to urge the implementation of full mutual recognition of occupational health and safety certification standards among the four Atlantic provinces.
We urge the Atlantic provinces to commit to recognizing health and safety credentials earned in any other Atlantic province, ensuring that certifications obtained in one jurisdiction are automatically accepted in the others. This would eliminate redundant training, testing, or recertification requirements for skilled workers moving within the region, while upholding consistent high standards of workplace safety.
This initiative builds on existing regional efforts, such as the 2023 Agreement to Improve Technical Safety, Interjurisdictional Commerce, and the Mobility of Certified Tradespeople in Atlantic Canada. It aligns closely with regional priorities of strengthening the Atlantic economy, enhancing workforce flexibility, addressing ongoing labour shortages in construction and skilled trades, and accelerating the delivery of vital infrastructure, housing, and energy projects.
We commend the collaborative leadership the Council of Atlantic Premiers provide in driving regional progress and economic growth. We look forward to continued partnership in creating a more unified, mobile, and competitive Atlantic Canadian economy. The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce remains committed to working closely with your governments and industry stakeholders to help turn these shared priorities into tangible results for workers and businesses throughout the region.
Sincerely,
Rhonda Tulk-Lane
President & CEO, Atlantic Chamber of Commerce
Chair, Chambers of the Federation
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Truth and Reconciliation
Recognizing the importance of education, the Chamber encourages businesses to provide comprehensive training for management and staff on the history of Indigenous peoples, including the legacy of residential schools, Indigenous rights, and Aboriginal-Crown relations. Emphasizing intercultural competency, conflict resolution, and anti-racism, these efforts aim to foster a more inclusive and harmonious corporate environment rooted in mutual understanding and respect. Learn more click here.
