Collaboration on key industry issues was the end goal for the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) at its 57^th annual joint meeting with the federal government on May 9. Industry leaders met with the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos and close to 30 senior officials from 13 federal departments to discuss pressing issues in the construction industry, marking a return to the original meeting location for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.

This ongoing collaboration aims to ensure that the construction industry remains a key contributor to Canada’s economic and environmental goals.

Pivotal topics took centre stage during the meeting, including the slow progress on the National Infrastructure Assessment, notable gaps in infrastructure funding, persistent workforce shortages, and the need to modernize procurement processes.

Other discussions were held around the implementation of alternative delivery methods tailored to the current needs of the industry, the Prompt Payment Act, security clearances, and housing-enabling infrastructure.

Environmental sustainability emerged as another focal point for collaboration, with CCA representatives underscoring the need to modernize procurement practices to encourage fair competition, innovation, risk-sharing, and the adoption of greener materials and methods. The industry asked for more clarity on the enforcement and monitoring mechanisms for the new standards on embodied carbon and GHG emissions within procurement. A close collaborative approach is necessary to ensure success.

Looking ahead, CCA will continue advocating for best practices in procurement and project delivery while closely monitoring the government’s initiatives.

For more information on the CCA’s advocacy work, please email Louis-Philippe Champagne, Associate Vice-President, Public Affairs and Industry Practices.