2 minute read
NLCA CHAIR MESSAGE
Message from the Chair PATRICK LAFRENIERE
It is no secret that the global pandemic has had a profound impact on all sectors including the construction industry in Newfoundland and Labrador. Project delays, cancellations, travel restrictions, lockdowns, job losses, increased health protocol costs have posed many challenges over the last two years. But through it all, NLCA has never stopped working on behalf of its more than 600 members. As the voice of the industry, the association remains committed to supporting members through advocacy, education and networking. Having served on the board for six years, I’m proud to be the current chair and feel that our association has never been more relevant and important. The natural resources sector downturn has meant low volume of work for many of our members. That’s why we have been actively advocating the need for infrastructure spending and shovel worthy projects to all levels of government. Strategic investments in infrastructure — roads, bridges, airports, hospitals — are critical to the province’s economic growth and the well-being of our communities.
We are beginning to see some positive signs with several announcements of oil and energy projects as well as mining opportunities in central Newfoundland and Labrador. Approval by Ottawa of the $16 billion Bay du Nord development is big news and we showcase the project inside this edition. All these megaprojects will mean economic spinoff opportunities throughout the construction chain.
I would like to remind members that NLCA offers a range of services, programs and benefits. One that I would like to focus on is the Centre of Ecovation, a pillar of the association that offers members a resource for innovation, products and emerging technologies. Sharing ideas through this centre will help the industry to innovate the way we build, increase productivity and to meet the carbon targets that governments are requiring.
With the pandemic restrictions, it certainly hasn’t been business as usual with the NLCA’s traditional calendar of events and activities disrupted, cancelled or moved online. So as in-person events return, I’m hopeful that I can connect with many of you to share information and ideas or to discuss any concerns you may have before my term ends in 2023.
I’m very optimistic about the outlook for next year and through NLCA’s advocacy work, we are hoping to spur more horizontal and vertical construction. In the meantime, the industry still faces an uphill climb but remember the NLCA team is ready and here to help you along the way.
