Bill C-636, also known as the Intern Protection Act, aims to amend the Canada Labour Code regarding unpaid training. The bill changes the definition of "employee" in Parts II and III of the Canada Labour Code to include individuals receiving training, whether or not they are paid. It also sets out specific conditions under which unpaid training is permitted.
According to the bill, employers can only offer unpaid training if the training is approved by an educational institution or vocational school and contributes to a degree or diploma. Additionally, the training must primarily benefit the person receiving it and improve their job or career prospects. The trainee's activities should also differ from those of paid employees, and they cannot replace paid employees.
If an employer provides unpaid training that meets these requirements, they must inform the trainee about the training terms, duration, activities, required hours, and the fact that they will not be paid. The employer must also keep a record of the hours the trainee works. The bill will come into effect on a date determined by the Governor in Council.
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This bill seeks to protect individuals in unpaid training positions by ensuring that the training they receive is beneficial to their future employment prospects and does not displace paid employees. By setting conditions for unpaid training, the bill aims to improve the quality and relevance of training programs, potentially leading to better job opportunities for trainees.