THOUSANDS OF JOBS EXPECTED FROM CHURCHILL FALLS & GULL ISLAND PROJECTS

(Sept 8th)

The Provincial Government says at least 85 per cent of all person-hours worked during construction of several major energy projects will remain in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Premier Tony Wakeham announced Tuesday that employment commitments already in place for the Gull Island project will now be extended to Churchill Falls upgrades, Labrador transmission projects and wind development.

Priority for the work will be given to qualified Labrador Innu, followed by qualified Labradorians and then qualified Newfoundlanders.

At the peak of construction, the Gull Island project alone is expected to employ as many as 5,000 workers.

Trades NL, which represents 14 building trades unions and thousands of skilled trades workers across the province, has announced its support for the Churchill Falls and Gull Island development agreement.

The projects are expected to create significant demand for skilled trades workers and apprentices as construction moves forward.