Ottawa’s decision to cut $70.8 million from the Labour Market Transfer Agreement (LMTA) funding will severely impact Alberta’s Foundational Learning Assistance program. This reduction, amounting to up to $34.7 million, jeopardizes support for the province’s most vulnerable students, including women, Indigenous peoples, newcomers, and individuals with disabilities.
Alberta’s government has been unable to reverse the federal decision despite appeals to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Minister Randy Boissonnault. The cut threatens to hinder workforce development and exacerbate the province’s skills shortage.
In response, Alberta officials are working to minimize the effects of the funding reduction, focusing on maintaining educational support and managing resources effectively. The government remains committed to providing quality education while addressing financial constraints.