Advocacy

MCAM Advocates for Amendments to the Manitoba Jobs Agreement

The Manitoba Jobs Agreement (MJA) is a provincial policy framework initiative announced in Budget 2025. The agreement was formalized by the Manitoba government and Manitoba Building Trades this past September. The agreement standardizes labor conditions on major public infrastructure projects. Government has signaled that publicly funded projects with a value of $50 million will be considered for application of the MJA. The agreement sets a preferential regime, consistent fully burdened labour rates, and equity-hiring targets. Following the Provincial Governments announcement of the MJA, MCAM requested industry consultation; highlighting, MCAM members construct and maintain essential systems and specialized operations within Manitoba's vertical infrastructure employing 14 (combined with ECAM) critical construction trades. Authentic engagement and consultation with our diverse memberships is essential. MCAM has ongoing dialogue and engagement with Government and department staff, addressing both operational and political concerns. MCAM has made progress for our contractors and will continue to advocate for industry priorities. Watch for the latest MCAM MJA updates and government resources posted here, MCAM social media, newsletter communications, board meeting highlights and general email.

Executive Director Updates

Prompt Payment

MCAM has advocated for a Manitoba Prompt Payment Regime since 2012. Collaborating with industry partners, MCAM joined the Manitoba Prompt payment collation (MBPP) in 2017. A coalition of 32 trade associations and unions, MBPP worked with government to legislate a Prompt Payment Regime for the Manitoba Construction Community.

MCAM Executive Director, Ramona Coey, and MCAM Board of Director, Brad Mason (ServcoCanada) led MBPP as committee co-chairs. Through diligence and collaboration with government and industry partners, Bill 38, the Modernization of the Builders' Liens Act (Prompt Payment) received Royal assent, May 2023.

Ramona and Brad were appointed to the Manitoba Builders' Liens Modernization Advisory Council serving as industry advisors in the development of the regulations. Government Officials have indicated they are hopeful the regulations will be in place and the Act proclaimed in the second quarter of 2025.

Bill 38- The Builders' Liens Amendment Act (Prompt Payment) Progression:

First Reading - March 23, 2023, Manitoba Prompt Payment (MBPP), a coalition made up of 32 Trade Associations and unions across the province, celebrated Honourable James Teitsma, Minister of Consumer Protection and Government Services, bringing forward the first reading of Bill 38. Press release.

Second Reading - April 17, 2023, the Manitoba Prompt Payment (MBPP) coalition, a coalition of 32 trade associations and unions across the province, applauded the unanimous support of Bill 38 - The Builders' Liens Amendment Act (Prompt Payment) received in passing second reading. Press release.

Committee - May 8, 2023, Bill 38 presented at Committee for public input, MCAM and industry partners made presentations in support of Bill 38, including a request for an amendment requiring a full review of the Builder's Liens act to be initiated within 24 months of amendments to the act coming into force and for the review to be tabled within 12 months of the review being initiated.

Third Reading - May 15, 2023, Bill 38 - Builders' Liens Amendment Act (Prompt Payment) passed third reading in the Manitoba Legislature. MCAM Executive Director, Ramona Coey expressed industry's appreciation to Honorable James Teitsma, Minister of Consumer Protection and Government Services, the Minister responsible for the Bill. In his response, Minister Teitsma commented, "I am pleased that Bill 38 Prompt Payment has passed third reading at the Manitoba Legislature. We expect Royal Assent to occur in the coming weeks as we begin work on the regulatory framework in consultation with the construction industry."

Royal Assent - May 30, 2023, Bill 38 - The Builders' Liens Amendment Act (Prompt Payment), has received royal assent, marking a significant milestone for the construction industry in Manitoba. Honourable James Teitsma, Minister of Consumer Protection and Government Services, expressed his enthusiasm upon the successful passage of Bill 38, stating, "Bill 38 is a significant step towards ensuring financial certainty for contractors and subcontractors and promotes economic growth and investment in our province. As we move forward, we remain committed to moving forward towards the implementation of this legislation and are confident that it will have a very positive impact."

Bill 38 - The Builders' Liens Amendment Act (Prompt Payment).

The Construction Industry Wage Act

The Construction Industry Wage Act (CIWA) provides for a minimum wage schedule for the ICI Construction Industry. All Skilled trades covered under the CIWA Wage Schedule, working on a Manitoba job site must be paid at minimum the wage according to the schedule.

The Wage Schedule, last updated in 2021, had not received an update in 5 years. The Minister in charge created an industry advisory panel to provide recommendations. The advisory panel took into consideration inflationary increases over this 5-year period recommending Increases and implementation dates that when received by Industry, were controversial. ECAM did not have representation on the 2021 advisory panel.

With the last schedule increase taking effect April 2024; Minister of Labour and Immigration; Honourable Malaya Marcelino communicated government's intent to review and update the Minimum Wage Schedule. In a letter to William Gardner, Chair of the Manitoba Employers Council; Minister Marcelino requested the MEC provide employer nominations to sit on an advisory panel reflecting the diversity of the industry.

In a unanimous vote a Joint ECAM & MCAM Committee nominated Shawn Henry of Wescan to represent the interest of both MCAM and ECAM. Wescan operates both electrical and mechanical divisions, employs both union and non-union skilled tradespeople and works across the spectrum of ICI sectors.

Shawn's nomination was successful, and the advisory panel is due to begin their work August - September 2024. Shawn will continue to consult with a joint ECAM & MCAM committee throughout deliberations.

Are you interested in becoming a member?

About us

Join now