May 20, 2009

B.C. election results will bring stability to construction sector, McLachlan says

Provincial Perspective

Manley McLachlan

President, B.C. Construction Association

Election results are really about the future, although the outcomes are usually based on the past, and now that the smoke has all but cleared from the campaign busses, we can take a look at how the May 12 election results will impact the construction sector in the next few months.

The most significant impact on the construction sector resulting from the provincial general election is stability. Stability that will be provided by an incumbent government that has, for many years now, created an investment climate that is attractive to both large and small investors. Investor confidence is critical to stabilizing and sustaining our economy during this time of global economic upheaval. We appreciate the significance of being able to continue to deal with the same people in the same policy environment, especially when both the people and the environment have generated tremendous results.

This is not to say there is not work to do. Work on a number of fronts.

Industry training needs will play a large role in both the recovery of the economy and sustained future growth. The ability to train effectively and efficiently is essential as we move through this period of lower demand for workers in the sector. The challenge will be in training to address the future demand, which will emerge as the pace of activity increases, during a period when we will see significant numbers of people retire from the industry. We anticipate continued support of the Construction Industry Training Organization as this organization will be instrumental in detailing, scheduling and maintaining the type of training programs industry will require.

The British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA) is encouraged by the leadership demonstrated by the Liberal government on sustainability issues.

The construction sector is front and center in many elements of these matters.

The industry by its very nature can provide some of our biggest challenges, however, it is also one of the primary means by which we can shape our approach to sustainability and deliver sustainable practices.

Unfortunately, constructors and suppliers within the construction sector have been engaged in very little consultation on these matters.

The BCCA has developed a sustainability advisory committee and is prepared to participate, facilitate or co-ordinate consultation on the broad range of environmental and sustainability issues and we look forward to full engagement with the new Liberal administration on these matters. It is very clear that infrastructure investment is the cornerstone of the economic recovery plan from both the federal and provincial governments.

This is bright news that has instilled confidence in employers. As the infrastructure projects make their way to the market, employers will make their decisions on staffing needs, and equipment purchases, both driving elements in economic recovery.

We have become aware of many issues related to the procurement environment that need attention.

We have been working closely with ministries to insure that openness, fairness and transparency are the principles that govern all construction procurement methods.

While the challenges are there, particularly when tight timelines and peoples’ jobs are in play, good process should not be seen as a barrier to meeting either timelines or employment. We look forward to building on the good work that has been accomplished with all levels of government to address issues that will arise out of the processes that the ministries and agencies will use to acquire construction services across this province.

Clearly, the election was all about the economy.

It was all about jobs and from our point of view it was all about construction jobs. The framework will now be in place for four more years of growth. The BCCA looks forward to working positively with this government to insure we make this province better in all respects.

Manley McLachlan is the president of the B.C. Construction Association.

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