Enbridge's Line 9B pipeline reversal would support good paying construction jobs across Canada: Progressive Contractors Association of Canada

Increasing market access for Canadian oil would enhance Canada's global competitiveness

TORONTO, Oct. 16, 2013 /CNW/ - The Progressive Contractors Association of Canada (PCA), which represents progressive unionized employers in Canada's construction industry, filed a written argument to the National Energy Board stating that Enbridge's proposed reversal of the Line 9B pipeline would help protect and create jobs in Canada's construction industry, while also enhancing Canada's global competitiveness.

In its written argument, the PCA highlighted that Canada enjoys a unique opportunity for economic growth and prosperity because of the differentiated size and scope of its oil reserves. Increasing market access for Canadian oil is critical to Canada's economic well-being and that of Canada's construction industry.

"Growth in Canada's oil sector has a direct impact on the development of Canada's construction industry, which has demonstrated itself to be among the most resilient sectors during economic slowdowns and to rebound faster during periods of economic recovery," said Sean Reid, Federal and Ontario Director, PCA. "As a country, we need to ensure we can bring our oil to market quickly and safely to stay ahead of our global competitors who are investing in pipeline and distribution capacity."

PCA is concerned that if important pipeline projects were to be stopped, such as Line 9B, future construction projects to increase capacity in the oil industry may be curtailed given the reduced access to market and lower sales. The failure to approve pipeline infrastructure projects and increase market access could also reduce investments in innovative technologies and new equipment, which can result in lower productivity for the construction sector as a whole.

The PCA points out that large-scale construction projects, such as those in the oil and pipeline industry, provide high quality, high value jobs for skilled tradespeople, professionals and other supporting staff in local communities across the country. And according to Statistics Canada, construction wages are generally higher than those in manufacturing.

"Canada needs a strong construction sector to continue to power its economic growth and development, particularly through future challenging economic periods," said Mr. Reid. "Ensuring that oil producers can get their product to market through safe, secure and efficient pipelines will support construction sector jobs across Canada and build a strong foundation to buffer against future economic slowdowns."

PCA strongly encourages the NEB to support Enbridge's application and approve the request.

"Realizing the economic benefits of Canada's oil industry is critical for PCA members and all Canadians," said Mr. Reid. "We need to ensure Canada's oil can safely, securely and efficiently get to markets through pipelines and deliver the economic benefits that will help move our economy and quality of life forward."

About the Progressive Contractors Association of Canada (PCA):
PCA is the voice of progressive unionized employers in Canada's construction industry. PCA member companies employ more than 25,000 skilled construction workers across Canada, represented primarily by the Christian Labour Association of Canada (CLAC). PCA member companies are responsible for 40 percent of energy and natural resource construction projects in British Columbia and Alberta and are leaders in infrastructure construction across Canada.

SOURCE: Progressive Contractors Association of Canada

For interviews and more information:
Sean Reid
Federal and Ontario Director
Progressive Contractors Association of Canada
Email: [email protected]
Phone: [phone] ext. 1
Web: www.pcac.ca