Premier Danielle Smith’s direction to Ministers is a solid step towards addressing long standing and emerging issues of Alberta’s construction industry. Ministerial mandate letters across Government address key issues for Alberta’s contractors. Mandate letters can be found here (https://open.alberta.ca/publications/mandate-letters-to-ministers-2022). Highlights include:
- Sustained infrastructure investment including trade corridors to support Albertan’s quality of life and economic prosperity
- Best value procurement and standardized contracts to reduce risk
- Extending prompt payment provisions to Government of Alberta contracts
- Promoting trades education, working training, recognition of out of province credentials, fostering opportunities for people from under-represented communities, and expanded Provincial Nominee Program
- Continued red tape reduction with an emphasis on streamlined permitting and Land Titles processes
- Complete Occupational Health & Safety Code review and more focus on mental health supports to keep workers safe
- Review Building Code changes to ensure safety and affordability
Alberta Construction Association and the 8 regional construction associations offer their expertise to partner with the Government of Alberta to rapidly implement these directions. Numerous meetings with Ministers are imminent to advance this work.