2016.05 PAID INTERNSHIPS
Whereas #1:
Professional training programs are potentially prohibitive in tuition, books, and tools, and in living expenses for the duration of the learning experience; and
Whereas #2:
Numerous professions require field experience, which can last several months or even years for which the trainee pays tuition fees; and
Whereas #3:
The interns are tasked with increasingly challenging responsibilities which provide real service to the field office setting; and
Whereas #4:
Labour legislation related to professional internships differs from province to province, creating a patchwork of different rules across the country; therefore be it
Resolved #1:
That the National Council of Women of Canada (NCWC) adopt as policy that internship work experience contributing to the orientation of a new practitioner to a practice setting be remunerated at no less than the respective provincial or territorial minimum wage level established in the province and territories where the internship is taking place; and be it further
Resolved #2:
That NCWC urge the Government of Canada to review and update the Canada Labour Code, to require the remuneration of internships related to professional certification and experience; and be it further
Resolved #3:
That Provincial Councils and federates urge their respective governments to include in the provincial or territorial labour legislation that interns practicing professional skills and competencies be remunerated at no less than the respective minimum wage level determined by the province or territory where the internship is taking place.