Ontario to invest over $2 million for training in horse racing industry

The Ontario government will invest $2.1 million to train workers in the horse racing industry.

This new training program will provide 250 participants with free training, up to $3,000 to cover expenses and paid work placements. Employers can also receive up to $1,000 per hire.

Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development, Donna Skelly, MPP for Flamborough-Glanbrook, Bob Bailey, MPP for Sarnia-Lambton, Randy Pettapiece, MPP for Perth-Wellington and Bill Walker, MPP for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound, made the announcement at the Ancaster Fairgrounds on Wednesday.

The horse racing and breeding sector contributes $2.3 billion annually to Ontario’s economy but continues to face a shortage of workers, with over 1,000 jobs going unfilled in September 2021.

Today’s investment will help the Ontario Harness Horse Association develop and deliver a training program that teaches participants about horse behavior, handling and care, nutrition and safety in stables.

The course includes eight weeks of online academic instruction, followed by paid work placements of six to 12 weeks at local employers.

The program runs until Oct. 31, 2022.