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WINNIPEG — CLAC Local 152 and the Progressive Contractors Association of Canada are applauding news the Manitoba government has made amendments to the hotly-discussed Manitoba Jobs Agreement (MJA), which will now “ensure collective bargaining relationships are respected.”

“This change recognizes the importance of stable labour relations, respects the rights of workers to be represented by the union of their choosing, and supports greater collaboration across Manitoba’s construction sector,” a release reads. “CLAC is grateful for the government’s willingness to listen and make adjustments that better reflect the interests and needs of workers on the ground.”

CLAC Local 152’s announcement comes after several Manitoba construction industry associations concerned over the development and implementation of the MJA recently called for an independent review after documents obtained through Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act requests showed a significant “absence of consultation.”

According to a release, the records raised issues regarding how the MJA framework was developed and the “apparent lack of publicly available procurement analysis supporting one of the most significant changes to Manitoba public infrastructure procurement in decades.” It also stated only the Manitoba Building Trades were seemingly consulted.

According to the provincial government, the MJA is a provincial policy that prioritizes Manitoba workers on major government infrastructure projects to deliver higher wages, benefits and strong safety protections. It is meant to boost local employment, workforce development through apprenticeships and project stability by setting consistent terms for union and non-union trades.

In its announcement, CLAC stated it also acknowledges the broader objectives of the MJA.

“Investing in apprenticeships and opening doors to rewarding careers in construction are goals we strongly share,” said Geoff Dueck Thiessen, regional director of CLAC’s Winnipeg Member Centre, in a statement. “These priorities are essential to building a skilled, inclusive workforce, able to meet Canada’s future construction needs.

“We look forward to continuing to support the province’s objectives and contributing to the successful completion of these important projects. By working together, we can ensure that Manitoba’s investments deliver lasting benefits for workers, communities and the provincial economy.”