Canadian construction economists call for federal reform

OTTAWA, ONT. – Canada’s construction economists are calling attention to oversights by the federal government, highlighting the pressing need for reforms to address the Canadian housing crisis and promote investments in Canada’s nation-building infrastructure.

The Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (CIQS), which represents Professional Quantity Surveyors (PQS) and Construction Estimator Certified (CEC), points to the federal government’s gaps in ensuring that Canada’s future infrastructure adheres to contemporary, cost-efficient standards. Construction Economists believe that deficiencies stem from the government’s limited engagement with industry professionals skilled at evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of upcoming construction initiatives.

“While we welcome the government’s initial $13 billion capital investment in Build Canada Homes and the approval of several new major infrastructure projects, there must be a mechanism to ensure every dollar is efficiently utilized and that projects achieve their
financial targets,” said Sean Hollywood, PQS and CIQS vice-chair.

Engaging PQS and CECs, Canada’s construction economists can aid the government by integrating enhanced analysis, risk evaluation, and cost forecasting into the federal planning and procurement process.

Canada’s construction industry is the beating heart of the Canadian economy. According to CIQS, accounting for around 7.5 per cent of our GDP, the construction industry provides over 1.6 million Canadians and their families with good-paying jobs. One out of every 13 workers in Canada earns a living from the construction industry.

View the full press conference here.