Journeymen in Alberta will now be allowed to supervise up to two apprentices.

The rules changed on January 31st, increasing the ratio from 1:1.

Even though critics say safety will be compromised, a government spokesman says it will not.

Kevin Donnan with Alberta Education and Technology says the same standards and practices will apply.

He tells the Edmonton Journal a number of industry people have come forward to say the ratio is more than adequate.

Gil McGowan with the Alberta Federation of Labour fears the new rules will water down the quality of apprentice education and could also compromise workmanship.

iNews 880, Sat Feb 5 2011