Statement by MBT Executive Director Tanya Palson on the Progressive Conservative’s decision to delay the repeal of the ban on Project Labour Agreements

April 18, 2024

It is incredibly disappointing that the PC’s continue to punish Manitoba’s construction workers. Yesterday, they announced they will be delaying legislation that would repeal the ban on Project Labour Agreements (PLAs). MBT knows PLAs are a tool that provide government’s cost certainty, ensure local hiring and allow workforce development to be built into the tendering of projects that are funded through public dollars. 

British Columbia is a prime example of a jurisdiction that has implemented a PLA style framework providing measurable results for the health of their provincial economy. 91% of workers on infrastructure projects in British Columbia are British Columbian residents. In addition to ensuring that large government investments in infrastructure create local jobs, and priority hiring and training measures for Indigenous peoples and other underrepresented groups like women and new Canadians.  

Manitoba should be looking to adopt models that are working across Canada, and the PC’s actions continue to create unnecessary barriers to much needed workforce development and recruitment into the construction industry. Our association is grateful to have a government that recognizes that Manitoba’s construction sector deserves the opportunity to grow and diversify its workforce.  

Due to the PC’s actions, Manitoba will remain the only jurisdiction in North America where PLAs are illegal. This is what happens when ideology flies in the face of reason. Once again, the PCs are putting their desire to do something harmful for the unions ahead of the overall health of Industry. We will continue to reach out to the PC caucus to inform them of the benefits of PLAs for major public projects, workers, and the economy.