MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2004

Vancouver… The chief spokesperson for union construction workers in BC, Wayne Peppard, has backed statements made today by Carmen Maretic, an advocate for leaky condo owners. According to news reports, Maretic called on the Hon. Murray Coell, Minister Responsible for Homeowner Protection, to “ensure that our labour force is skilled and that we are able to monitor things.”

Peppard also called on the government to enhance skills training and to enforce laws that govern the building process. “Since the institution of the new training model, two years ago, the number of registered construction apprentices has dropped. The self-help model is not improving the supply of skilled labour” according to Peppard.

Quality and public safety has also been jeopardized Peppard said. “The government has done away with the requirement that made certifications compulsory in seven trades. Handymen are now legally allowed to install electrical, sheet metal, gas and plumbing components in new residential buildings across the province” Peppard commented.

In summation, Wayne Peppard concluded “It’s time for the government to back down from its deregulation agenda and move to regulate and enforce standards for the construction industry across the province. The BC government has an obligation to ensure that consumers are not fooled when it comes to the safety and quality of their new home”.

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For further information contact Wayne Peppard at (604) 916-0027

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For further information contact 

the BCYT-BCTC office:  604-291-9020

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