b'FROM OUR PRESIDENTSnowstorm ComingRecent data shows building permits in Manitoba trending slightly downwarda development that, while concerning, is not entirely unexpected given the current climate of economic uncertainty, ongoing supply chain disruptions and the impacts of tariffs. These factors alone would be enough to create headwinds for the construction sector. Unfortunately, new provincial actions are adding additional layers of instability.The provincial government has increasingly inserted itself into the operations of Manitobas construction industry. The first major intervention was the sweeping changes to apprenticeship ratios that put Manitoba out of sync with Western Canada and limits our ability to train tradespeople to meet workforce needs.Now the industry is contending with the rollout of project labour agreements through the framework known as the Manitoba Jobs Agreement (MJA). While the government advertises the MJA as a tool to support fairness and inclusion, the lack of clarity surrounding its structure and implementation has become a significant source of concern.To date, no clear policy has been released to define the scope of work covered by the MJA. It remains unclear whether it will apply to ICI, engineering, heavy construction or a combination of these sectors. The $50-million threshold is entirely arbitrary and no meaningful industry consultations have taken place. Instead, stakeholders have encountered resistance and a lack of transparency.This uncertainty is already affecting project planning and risk calculations for contractors across the province.The government has promoted several anticipated benefits of the MJA, but many of these claims warrant closer scrutiny:More apprentices? Ratio changes likely undermine this aspiration.More opportunities for underrepresented groups? A commendable goal, but again, no details have been shared on how these outcomes will be supported or measured. Fewer out-of-province licence plates on Manitoba jobsites? Construction is by nature a mobile industry. Skilled workers gowhere the work is, and interprovincial trade agreements guarantee that right. Limiting mobility contradicts the principles of Team Canada collaboration.Meanwhile, the industry already sets fair and consistent compensation standards. The completion of the most recent round of the Construction Industry Wages Act (CIWA) ensures minimum wage protections for workers across industry sectors.For years, Manitobas construction industry has operated effectively without this degree of government intervention. Employers, workers, unions and training institutions have collaborated to maintain strong standards while responding efficiently to the provinces infrastructure needs. The introduction of the MJA risks undermining this balance. As uncertainty grows, many contractors and subcontractors may reconsider their willingness to take on projects governed by the MJA. Reduced competition inevitably drives up costscosts that will ultimately be borne by Manitobans.The construction industry is not resisting change for the sake of resisting it. Rather, it is calling for clarity, consultation and policies that supportnot hinderthe delivery of high-quality, cost-effective projects.If the province proceeds without addressing these concerns, Manitoba may face higher construction costs, a shrinking contractor pool and further delaysat a time when the industry is already navigating a volatile global environment.Ron Hambley6 BUILD MANITOBAwinnipegconstruction.ca'