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Originally Posted by b1crunch
Am I wrong or is the 'Just Transition' program optional for workers?
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Yes, I guess, depending on what exact "program" you mean.
Just Transition is more a broad philosophy at this point with the goal to be transition away from fossil fuels in such a way that it limits the negative effect of the workers and communities reliant on that sector.
So, for example, the
Task Force on Just Transition for Canadian Coal Power Workers and Communities consulted with those in the industry and communities that will be affected by the transition away from coal. After consultation it came up with a number of the biggest concerns facing these communities and recommendations for the government to implement that would limit these concerns.
From the report:
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One of the key concerns we heard was a lack of information that would allow coal workers to effectively plan for what is to come. Workers, families, and communities struggle to find examples of successful transitions that they can use as a road map. While some were hopeful about the future, many more were pessimistic. Timely, accurate, and trustworthy information from employers and governments would help to reduce anxiety and give workers greater assurances when making decisions for themselves and their families.
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In travelling across the country, we heard not only about the fears and concerns of workers and communities, but also about what has worked in some previous workforce transitions. We learned how locally-run transition centres that opened following the closure of other industries were an important resource and space to facilitate information sharing and service delivery. Workers, governments, and community representatives recognized these centres as a proven model to deliver consistent yet context-appropriate and flexible services and information, covering everything from re-employment opportunities and skills recognition, to educational and financial services, and healthcare. We heard how important it is that these centres be locally driven and adequately resourced to offer a broad range of services delivered by qualified personnel that understand and appreciate local conditions.
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Therefore a recommendation from the task force was to fund the establishment and operation of locally-driven transition centres in affected communities.
As a result of that task force the GOC committed 185M to the just transition of coal with 35M going to skill development and economic diversification so far.