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SUPPLEMENT TO THE FREE PRESS - WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016

View online at winnipegfreepress.com/publications

GROWING THE ECONOMY IS JOB #1

Labour & Employment & OHS Jamie Jurczak 204.988.0393 [email protected]

Construction Law Kevin Williams 204.988.0309 [email protected]

9th Floor - 400 St. Mary Avenue Winnipeg, R3C 4K5

204.949.1312 tmlawyers.com C M Y K C M Y K

A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2016 3

HIGHWAY TO TRADE: OUR ROADS ARE THE ARTERIES OF OUR ECONOMIC HEART

CHRIS LORENC, THE MANITOBA HEAVY THIS WESTERN CANADIAN TRADE CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION BUILDS INITIATIVE SOUNDS INTRIGUING, BUT ROADS, BUT IT ALSO SAYS IT HELPS BUILD HOW DOES IT WORK AND HOW DOES IT A STRONG ECONOMY. HOW SO? ACTUALLY MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO THE CATTLE RANCHER IN THE INTERLAKE, OR We tend to only really think about our roads when THE IT SPECIALIST IN A SMALL START-UP they are under construction. In fact, roads are the arteries that keep our economy’s heart – trade IN THE EXCHANGE DISTRICT? --pumping. There is clear economic evidence in a It focuses on a couple of basic strategies: moving series of reports – from Canada West Foundation, the product to market and people to work. Those Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the World Economic engaged in resource, manufacturing or food Forum -- showing the link between sustained production know that exports move to where the investment in core infrastructure and economic logistics of trade are cost-effective. Without hosting growth. And there’s a growing body of research out such advantages, Canada loses and with that loss so, of academic, business investment, banking and trade too, go the jobs in the sectors you have identified. union circles, all calling for a nation-building, trade- A growing economy generates revenues to fund enabling infrastructure investment strategy. This is our healthcare, education and social programs that why the Trudeau government’s long-term budget underpin our quality of life. Without economic growth plans call for trade-enabling infrastructure investment. sustaining those revenues, discussion around funding These are lofty goals, but the business gets done at the all those programs are moot. ground level – on the roads we use daily to get to the office, to school, or to our weekend golf or soccer games. ON A ‘LOCAL’ LEVEL, THOUGH, WE STILL HAVE OUR HIGHWAYS AND STREETS THAT NEED WORK – HOW DO WE FIND THE HOW DOES MANITOBA PLAY INTO THIS? MONEY TO DO THAT?

Manitoba is a prolific trading economy: $33 billion It’s all about growing the economy and prioritizing, of our GDP (45%) is tied to trade – larger than with a strategy that underpins our infrastructure healthcare; 5,300 employers are involved in trade; program. We advocate for six organizing principles 240,000 direct and indirect jobs in Manitoba are tied to prioritize and stick to a plan: the program must to trade; $19 billion of trade moves north/south on be permanent, no less so that healthcare, education; Highway 75 making Emerson the busiest border it must focus first on investments that grow the crossing by volume in . economy, without ignoring the needs of existing roads; we need to embrace innovation in design, Western Canada accounts for 42% of Canada’s total construction, maintenance. New products can extend trade volume. Manitoba has to position itself to the life of a bridge, for example, from 35 to 70 years; AN INTERVIEW WITH capitalize on that and the new trade deals in the CHRIS LORENC, PRESIDENT we need to partner with the private sector; we need making. We should become a leading member of the to dedicate revenue streams to the plan so that the OF THE MANITOBA HEAVY New West Partnership Trade Agreement. We need public sees where it is being invested, not spent; and CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION to raise the profile of trade, and trade infrastructure. we must review the program annually to adjust based There is little point in Canada signing on to trade on what is learned and to ensure discipline to purpose. agreements if we don’t have the infrastructure to move products to market and people to work. HOW DO YOU SEE MANITOBA IN A HOW DOES MANITOBA POSITION ITSELF TO DECADE? WHERE DO YOU THINK WE’LL BE ELEVATE TRADE? IN TERMS OF OUR QUALITY OF LIFE, OUR EMPLOYMENT RATE, HEALTH STATUS? Manitoba must be seen to be championing a pan- western trade investment strategy. A new Western If we could harness a pan-western trade strategy, Canadian trade initiative can make the case to Ottawa a nation-building effort, we would not be worried that national infrastructure projects must be nation- about whether our children and grandchildren building. Leveraging is key to such investment. In the have careers or jobs. We would relish in being able to Asia Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative, federal leave, as our legacy, a sustainable, green economy to A GUIDE FOR investment was about $1.4 billion. It leveraged further enhance our quality of life. We would benefit roughly $14 billion of additional private- and public- by provincial and federal budgets getting back to INFRASTRUCTURE sector investment. The private sector must play a key surpluses that pay down debt while being able to role in shaping a new trade strategy: Its products hit strategically invest in an even stronger Canada. What INVESTMENT the global market every day. It knows where are the we want is to build the Canada where our children can key bottlenecks and congestion points that inhibit prosper, too. A country that inspires pride. A world-class quality of life. That is what we should aspire towards. MHCA’S SIX PRINCIPLES the movement of goods and services. It knows which regulations must be harmonized. Chris Lorenc is the president of the Manitoba And we can’t forget the value that Heavy Construction Association and the Western • A PERMANENT PROGRAM – no less brings not only in resource development but in Canada Roadbuilders and Heavy Construction so than healthcare, education and exports. Churchill, Canada’s only northern deep-sea Association. Visit www.MHCA.mb.ca to view public safety , must be key to a national strategy. MHCA’s submission to the provincial Budget 2017 consultation. ■ • Primary focus should be to GROW THE ECONOMY

• EMBRACE INNOVATION in every aspect, including design, financing/ funding, procurement, construction, maintenance and rehabilitation

• Harness PARTNERSHIPS WITH THE PRIVATE SECTOR, the engine of ingenuity

• Funded by DEDICATED REVENUE STREAMS in support of its purposes

• Subject to ANNUAL TRANSPARENT REVIEWS for accountability, adjustment and ‘discipline to purpose’

“ We want to build the Canada where our children can prosper, too.” C M Y K

4 WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2016 A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

CHURCHILL IS A GATEWAY- LET’S TREAT IT THAT WAY

THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF ADVENTURERS OF ENGLAND SAW THE POTENTIAL. THE SELKIRK SETTLERS, TOO, EXPERIENCED FIRST-HAND WHAT MADE OUR PROVINCE UNIQUE. WHAT THEY ‘DISCOVERED’ UPON COMING TO THE SHORES OF HUDSON BAY, WAS OLD NEWS TO THE INDIGENOUS PEOPLE ACROSS THAT VAST TERRITORY.

SALT WATER, RIVERS, ANIMALS BY LAND, OCEAN AND SKY. FURS, MEAT, TRAVEL. TRADE. CULTURE. COMMERCE. PROSPERITY. be an international leader in this. A consortium of 15 First Nations, with a The lack of interest in Churchill track record of running a short-line rail, has a business plan for the Port that is hat is what Churchill has been ignores the North’s potential. This is not predicated on grain shipment. It and is, now, although I think not an indulgent exercise in national aims to position Churchill to be central most of us refuse to recognize mythology; it is existential, pinned to the supply and transportation needs Tand seize on the fact. down by the cold, hard realities. Churchill embodies Canada’s national myth. We are the North. We are strength > The lack of interest in Churchill ignores in adversity. We embrace and defy the elements that would kill less hardy stock. the North’s potential. This is not an indulgent Such romanticism is more than symbol- exercise in national mythology; it is existential, ism, it is the essence of nation-building. pinned down by the cold, hard realities. Yet Manitobans and Canadians seem doggedly determined to ignore the wealth and potential that lie in the North. Public investment in Churchill can stand of Nunavut. That’s vision and our firmly on steely eyed economics. Climate governments should be listening. Churchill has Canada’s only northern change means the Northwest Passage deep-water port. Today, the future of can be a cheaper east-west shipping Churchill can and should be the hub BY LLOYD AXWORTHY the is jeopardized. route. It opens access to Arctic resources. for a new relationship with Indigenous people, in social, scientific and This summer, owner-operator Omnitrax This is why the Russians are investing commercial innovation and enterprise, shuttered the Port and curtailed hundreds of millions of rubles in as well as international trade. shipments on the rail line that supplies infrastructure for navigation, safety, 30 northern communities. coast guard and port facilities. The The Trudeau government has said the next $60 billion in funding for Canada’s But it is unfair and myopic to blame Scandinavians are similarly gearing up. infrastructure must be ‘nation-building’ Omnitrax, or dismiss this as a negotiating We naturally think of the expanded – developing Northern Canada’s ploy for public subsidy. tourism – a boon to Inuit artists international trade routes is entirely that. Omnitrax has spent substantial capital and businesses. In the same way that the natural wealth and has tried to diversify the market. But Canada has territorial interests to of the North – its people, especially But the truth is a viable business plan defend. It cannot assert sovereign claim -- made the Hudson’s Bay Company for the Port requires public investment to the polar continental shelf by sending rich, fed settlement in the Red River and public policy to backstop it. the occasional icebreaker to fly the flag Valley and gave birth to Winnipeg, A port operation needs services only in the fabled Northwest Passage. It Canada and Manitoba should see that an engaged federal government can needs to plant a definable, permanent today’s Churchill, its port and rail line provide: regular, dependable navigation stake in the North. are critical to how we will prosper. This and coast-guard support to ensure safe We need to invest in the Port of Churchill. is by no means myth; it is very much passage of vessels, for example. Canada our reality, now, and our future. It Canada needs a northern “gateway” doesn’t do that. Why? completes Canada. strategy. Federally, we have gateway Further, securing a rail bed destabilized legislation to guide development Lloyd Axworthy is a former federal by the melting permafrost will require the strategy pertaining to the Atlantic and Liberal cabinet minister and the efforts of our research and development Pacific oceans – we need this for the former chair of the Churchill Gateway sector. In a warming climate, there Arctic Ocean, too. Let’s work to gain Development Corp. He is the chancellor is evident spin-off potential for such gateway designation for Churchill, of St. Paul’s University College at the technological innovation. Canada could centred on aboriginal ownership. University of Waterloo. ■ C M Y K

A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2016 5

ACCORDING TO THE PROVINCE per week than that same worker The provincial government has OF MANITOBA’S OWN ECONOMIC in Alberta, and $100 less than started the process of conducting ECONOMIC FORECAST, THE PROVINCE’S REAL someone in Saskatchewan. When a comprehensive value-for-money GDP IS EXPECTED TO GROW BY you add in the fact that the Basic review of government spending 2.1 PER CENT THIS YEAR – WELL Personal Tax Exemption in both to ensure better value for taxpayer GROWTH ABOVE THE CANADIAN AVERAGE Alberta and Saskatchewan is almost money. At the same time, it has OF 1.3 PER CENT – AND BY 2.2 PER double the exemption in Manitoba, committed to establishing a Red MUST DRIVE PUBLIC CENT IN 2017. and that personal income tax rates Tape Reduction Task Force to cut are significantly better in those unnecessary red tape that stifles hen looking at provinces, the financial benefits of growth and kills job creation. The other key economic POLICY DECISIONS living in those provinces become Manitoba Chambers of Commerce indicators such clearly evident. (MCC) believes that measures as Manitoba’s such as these are crucial to getting Wunemployment rate of six per There is no question the Pallister our provincial finances in order cent — again, better than Canada’s government’s first six months in and restoring confidence in the seven per cent — and retail sales office have proven to be challenging, business community. that have increased by 6.7 per cent with its first budget projecting a in the first six months of 2016, you deficit of over $900 million and Prior to the spring provincial would think Manitoba’s economy Finance Minister Cameron Friesen election, MCC and five other was firing on all cylinders. indicating that it would be another prominent business organizations in eight years before Manitoba would the province urged political parties But that’s not the case. be able to balance the books. to support seven key public policy According to the Manitoba This prompted S&P Global Ratings pillars that are critical to “Growing Prosperity Report, which compares a (previously known as Standard and Manitoba’s Economy.” number of key economic indicators Poor’s), to bump the province’s credit Based on Manitoba’s financial with the three other Western rating to AA- from AA. The agency situation, the most critical of those provinces, Manitoba has some work says the downgrade reflects the seven pillars is fiscal competitiveness. to do to compete. expectation that Manitoba will have Manitoba must have an effective Take, for example, both high a sustained debt burden for several and fiscally prudent government school and post-secondary years that is higher than that of its committed to creating a competitive graduation rates. While Manitoba is peers, and that the negative outlook tax jurisdiction to attract and retain experiencing improvements in both reflects the view that the province new investment. MCC has argued that for Manitoba to achieve the level of prosperity > When it comes to average weekly wages, needed to take our economy to the a Manitoba worker earns almost $300 less next level, the provincial government per week than that same worker in Alberta, must share with Manitobans its commitment to ensuring that and $100 less than someone in Saskatchewan economic growth is the driving force behind all its decisions. And while there is still a lot of work to of these important categories, we faces significant challenges bringing BY CHUCK DAVIDSON be done, it appears the government still rank dead last when compared itself back into fiscal balance. is listening. with the provinces that make up the While it may look bleak for the New West Partnership. Manitoba economy in the short term, Chuck Davidson is president of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. ■ In addition, when it comes to some of the measures the current average weekly wages, a Manitoba government is undertaking do worker earns almost $300 less provide confidence to the business community over the long term.

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6 WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2016 A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

YOU MAY HAVE HEARD THAT CENTREPORT CANADA IS A BIG DEAL FOR MANITOBA. THIS IS NOT JUST CENTREPORT: BECAUSE IT’S THE LARGEST TRI-MODAL IN — CENTREPORT IS A BIG DEAL BECAUSE IT PROVIDES THE BEST STRATEGIC, LONG-TERM ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR PROVINCE. A FULL BUILD-OUT OF CENTREPORT WILL CREATE TENS OF THOUSANDS OF JOBS AND ADD AN ECONOMIC SIGNIFICANTLY TO THE MANITOBA ECONOMY, POWERING THE PROVINCE’S ECONOMIC ENGINE INTO POWERHOUSE THE FUTURE. entrePort, at 20,000 acres, is a These are big commitments. But it has of CentrePort South. CentrePort South, in central geographic location with paid off. Nearly 50 different companies the City of Winnipeg, includes 1,100 net FOR MANITOBA Cunparalleled and easy access to rail, are in various stages of development on acres of industrial land for investment, truck and air cargo lines for companies the footprint, and momentum continues Phase I of the airport’s west side campus moving goods and services. This superior to build. More than 2,100 acres of prime development (257 acres for new location tri-modal infrastructure includes three industrial land are coming to market. opportunities for aviation-related continental, Class-1 rail carriers. industries), and a 600-acre residential The most recent tenant, Imperial Seed, community which expands the existing This all came together through strategic had outgrown their operations and neighbourhoods of Crestview and infrastructure investment: the opening of was considering locations outside of Heritage Park into CentrePort. CentrePort the $212-million expressway, CentrePort Manitoba. In September, work began on is committed to championing a “live, Canada Way; significant upgrades to the the company’s new $8-million agricultural work, play, and learn” planning model, to Trans-Canada Highway, Highways 59, hub at CentrePort, which will allow them to support the development of a complete 75 and the Perimeter; and the planned double their capacity and staff over time. community. CentrePort is working with extension of CentrePort Canada Way to partners to increase education and Most of CentrePort’s development to date bypass Headingley and connect directly to training opportunities, protect parks and is clustered in CentrePort North in the RM the Trans-Canada. greenspaces, encourage more “green” of Rosser. The Province of Manitoba has development, and support new active transport opportunities.

> Major investments in infrastructure have been an The potential benefits of developing important part of CentrePort’s success. Since the opening of CentrePort South are enormous — a full the $212-million expressway, CentrePort Canada Way, there build-out of CentrePort South is projected to add nearly $1 billion in GDP, $23 million have been significant upgrades to the Trans-Canada Highway, annually in new property taxes, and create Highways 59, 75 and the Perimeter, as well as the planned 17,600 permanent jobs post-construction. extension of CentrePort Canada Way to bypass Headingley CentrePort’s strategic development and connect directly to the Trans-Canada Highway. is an economic investment and long-term growth strategy that will transform Manitoba. CentrePort is a key infrastructure and implemented a special planning area in DIANE GRAY economic development asset for the CentrePort North to streamline the land- This is an opportunity to establish the CEO OF CENTREPORT CANADA province – and Western Canada – because development approval process. The special region as a key transportation gateway it is an economic hub connecting the planning area gives companies planning and position our province and our country region’s trade corridors that power the certainty and makes the development as a leader in global trade and supply movement of goods and services. As those process accountable and transparent. chain logistics. corridors and assets – air, rail, highways, The successful strategic development sea and inland and border crossings One of CentrePort’s signature projects, the of CentrePort is a BIG deal and a legacy – solidify and develop their ties, CentrePort CentrePort Rail Park, is in development investment for all Manitobans — and we will continue to drive economic growth. in CentrePort North. This 700-acre project, located just south of the CP are just getting started. Working closely Further, the western extension of mainline and west of CentrePort Canada with our partners, the community and key Chief Peguis Trail will enable it, too, to Way, will provide access to a common- stakeholders, we will continue to build become a trade corridor, connecting into use rail facility and adjacent industrial the business case for servicing CentrePort CentrePort Canada. space for rail-intensive business to co- lands, drive long-term sustainable growth locate. Construction will begin on the Rail and broadcast the message that our inland Major investment went, as well, into a new Park in the spring of 2017. port, our city and our province are open water-treatment plant in Headingley that for business. provides water to CentrePort North and a While development is ongoing in number of municipalities in the surrounding CentrePort North, the corporation is Diane Gray is president and CEO of area. The extension of wastewater servicing also working with its private partners, CentrePort Canada. ■ from the City of Winnipeg into CentrePort including the Winnipeg Airports North is almost complete. Authority, to kickstart the development

CENTREPORT CANADA IS TAKING SHAPE AS AN ECONOMIC HUB

PERIMETER HIGHWAY Nearly 50 new companies are developing on 270 acres of land, and by 2020, a total of 70 new companies are expected to invest at CentrePort.

TM To date, there has been $230 million in private Futuuturre capital investment. Imperial Seed’s new $8 million DDeevelopment New Lands Development agricultural hub is the latest project to break Opportunity

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Over 2,100 acres of prime industrial land E Rail Park Industrial P AY W Park West are coming to market, and 700,000+ square feet A Manufacturing & ANAD T C Strategic are currently available for lease or purchase on the Logistics Industrial Development

CentrePort CENTREPOR CentrePort footprint. Service North Area Municipal Boundary CentrePort South

Recreation/ Manufacturing & Service - CentrePort is home to an international Open Space Logistics Industrial Oriented trucking hub, and the inland port expressway, Industrial CentrePort Canada Way, takes trucks to 55 mph in 5 Winnipeg James ArmstArmstrrong Richaicharrdson minutes or less, making it easier for companies on InIntternaernational AirpoAirporrt site to move valuable cargo across the continent. Business Park Air CentrePort Canada Way Serviced Extension to Residential Industrial Bypass Headingley

CP RAIL LINE VENUE SASKATCHEWAN A A new residential community is being Aerospace planned on 600 acres, which will provide a home Murray Industrial and Air Cargo Campus for 8,000-10,000 residents. The area will be Park buffered by a new business park for commercial and retail services. C M Y K

A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2016 7

HIGHWAY 280 BETWEEN GILLAM AND THOMPSON HAD THE DUBIOUS DISTINCTION OF EARNING TOP SPOT IN CAA MANITOBA’S ANNUAL ROAD ‘WORST ROADS’ POLL IN 2015. hile conditions have since “To have it where the equipment couldn’t improved, Thompson-based even get through, let alone the cars and WSmook Contractors Ltd. vice- trucks… it was absolutely crazy to see what president Peter Paulic says the situation they had to try and drive through.” IN RUIN highlighted the need for a sensible infrastructure strategy. Manitoba Hydro, mining companies and CRUMBLING HIGHWAY residents in the Thompson area rely heavily ILLUSTRATES NEED FOR Hwy 280, the only road serving Gillam, on Hwy 280 north of the city, and Highway Fox Lake and Split Lake — and a vital link 6 to the south. Northern contractors and the INFRASTRUCTURE STRATEGY for York Landing — was in such bad shape Manitoba Heavy Construction Association that semi-trailers and passenger vehicles have been urging governments to invest were getting stuck in bad weather, and in strategic infrastructure that enables safe navigating ruts added hours to drive times. and efficient transport of people and goods.

“That’s how their groceries get there, everything, and it was terrible,” Paulic says. “ In order to pay for “For the lifeline of the community, it was services the rest of the not good.” province wants, you need Members of the Tataskweyak Cree Nation at to grow the economy. Split Lake blocked the road in 2014 to call And in order to grow the attention to their plight. economy, fixing up your Paulic says more than 1,000 vehicles per infrastructure so you have day use the road to reach Manitoba Hydro’s better trade infrastructure Keeyask Generating Station site, and the heavy truck traffic was only making for the future is critical ” conditions worse.

Last year, his company completed upgrades “In order to pay for services the rest of on 22 kilometres of road near Split Lake. the province wants, you need to grow Work on another 20 kilometres on the worst the economy. And in order to grow the section of the road is almost complete, economy, fixing up your infrastructure so ahead of schedule, and more upgrades are you have better trade infrastructure for the planned in 2017, with Manitoba Hydro and future is critical,” Paulic says. Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation “So don’t spend your budget, but invest sharing costs. your budget, is what our message has been. However, Paulic says upgrades should have We’re a resource-based province and if we been completed before construction began can’t get our resources out in an efficient on the Keeyask site. manner, we’re in trouble.”

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8 WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2016 A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

FISCAL STABILITY PROVIDES A SOUND PLATFORM FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH

AS MANITOBANS, WE ALL WANT A THRIVING ECONOMY THAT PRESERVES OUR PROVINCE’S STANDING AS AN ATTRACTIVE PLACE TO LIVE, WORK AND INVEST.

A ROBUST ECONOMY FUELS A CYCLE OF PROSPERITY. IT STIMULATES GROWTH AND GENERATES JOBS AND INCOMES THAT PROVIDE REVENUES TO GOVERNMENT, WHICH IN TURN ALLOWS FOR INVESTMENTS IN INFRASTRUCTURE, EDUCATION, HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES.

ut a high-performance economy has forefront in the wake of extreme positions taken BY DON LEITCH to be built on a sound foundation by candidates in the U.S. elections and Belgium’s Bof fiscal stability. While some degree opposition to the Comprehensive Economic and of deficit is occasionally acceptable, there’s Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and increasing concern that rising federal deficits are the European Union. Those extreme views pose unsustainable and, in Manitoba, we’re seeing real threats to our manufacturing and agriculture an alarming deficit level — on an annual basis, value-added industries. the deficit is made up almost entirely of interest No economy can insulate itself from trade relations payments on our debt. that have built up over decades through existing Borrowing to make our interest payments year agreements. The Manitoba economy is many times after year guarantees governments will get deeper larger — by value of output, by the number of jobs in debt, and when interest rates rise, our debt load created, by the amount of incomes produced — is only going to grow. than it would be if we weren’t exporting goods and services. For example, we would not have as This continues to be the single largest threat many highly skilled technical financial services jobs to services to our citizens and the ability of in Manitoba if we weren’t exporting that expertise government to invest in our communities. and management capacity beyond our borders. We must have a concerted effort at driving GROWING toward fiscal responsibility, which will allow our We must focus on trade policies and trade-related governments to put in place more competitive investment. Each year, $25 billion in goods cross MANITOBA’S and fair tax and regulatory regimes. We must do the Manitoba-U.S. border. That includes goods more to stimulate growth. from our trading region in Western Canada that are routed to the U.S. and Mexico and back through the ECONOMY In October, the forecast a national Mid-Continent Trade and Transportation Corridor. GDP growth rate of 1.1 per cent in 2016 and two We all benefit from investment in trade-enhancing Prior to the 2016 provincial election, the Manitoba per cent in 2017. We have to do better, and we can infrastructure that broadens our trading region. Heavy Construction Association, Business Council of do better. Manitoba, Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, Another key area is education. Like infrastructure, Generating consistent, sustainable economic it pays long-term dividends and it has to align Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, Manitoba Home growth requires long-term planning and big- Builders’ Association and The Winnipeg Chamber of with our needs, providing students with the picture thinking, with a sharp focus on key skills they need to obtain meaningful and Commerce outlined seven key public policy pillars. components: Infrastructure and innovation, trade gainful employment. It must support academic policy, training and education, and meaningful research and innovative ideas that enhance the Aboriginal engagement. FISCAL COMPETITIVENESS competitiveness of our businesses. Manitoba must have an effective and fiscally prudent We need selective, strategic investments in Innovation within our infrastructure investments government committed to creating a competitive tax infrastructure that enhance productivity and allow is also critical. In Manitoba, we’ve conducted jurisdiction to attract and retain new investment. us to more competitively, efficiently and effectively amazing research into how to build infrastructure move people and goods. that’s more productive and long-lasting, so we VENTURE CAPITAL don’t have to repair and replace it as often. Taking some of that solid infrastructure-related research Commitment to the creation of an accessible venture and incorporating it into the way we build our capital fund and supportive tax credit policies to > We need growth. infrastructure is crucial. leverage investment in the growth of new and existing We need to generate businesses. One piece of the education component that is jobs and incomes and critically important to the Business Council of GLOBAL TRADE revenue to government, Manitoba is Aboriginal engagement. We have to Commitment to pursuing an expanded global and it has to be done encourage greater participation by our Aboriginal trade profile for Manitoba which derives substantial community in every aspect of our economy and economic benefit. by focusing on the key society to ensure they can benefit from, and aspects of infrastructure, contribute to, our prosperity. INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT innovation, trade and Significant government cooperation is needed to Commitment to a strategic, sustained, disciplined drive that engagement strategy. Our Indigenous approach to investment in Manitoba’s core trade policy, training communities want to work and partner with infrastructure. and education and businesses, but they look to governments to provide leadership and a policy framework to Aboriginal engagement. enable them to more fully participate. If we don’t ABORIGINAL ENGAGEMENT get it right, we’ll continue to see a significant Commitment to the creation of an Aboriginal sector of our population trailing behind. Engagement Strategy to ensure inclusion and partnership in economic growth policies. We need to be more aggressive in pursuing Focusing on fiscal policy, debt and deficit is innovation, particularly in key sectors that have important, but that alone isn’t enough. We need potential for increased growth. There are bright growth. We need to generate jobs and incomes SKILLED WORKFORCE spots throughout our economy, in sectors such and revenue to government, and it has to be done Commitment to attracting, educating, training as agriculture, value-added food processing and by focusing on the key aspects of infrastructure, and retaining a skilled, responsive workforce is manufacturing. We have to encourage companies innovation, trade and trade policy, training and fundamental to ongoing economic growth. and investors to innovate — to take known education and Aboriginal engagement. processes and ideas and make them better, and If we get it right, we’ll have a thriving, sustainable “NEW FISCAL DEAL” to adopt new processes and ideas that allow them economy. If we don’t get it right, increasing deficits FOR MUNICIPALITIES to be more efficient and more competitive. The and a mounting debt will continue to strain Commitment to address the existing fiscal framework EMILI project proposing to incorporate machine resources that allow governments to provide between the province and municipalities to meet the learning in our research and businesses holds services our citizens want and need. challenges of the future. immense promise. There is national and global demand for the Don Leitch is president and CEO goods and services we’re producing. However, of the Business Council of Manitoba. ■ trade is always an item of concern, and it is at the C M Y K

A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2016 9

INVESTMENT IN HEAVY CONSTRUCTION WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AT THE MANITOBA MAKING INSTITUTE OF TRADES AND TECHNOLOGY (MITT) IS PAYING OFF WITH INTEREST. A HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR CERTIFICATE (HEOC) PROGRAM LAUNCHED IN JANUARY 2016 THE GRADE DREW SO MUCH INTEREST FROM STUDENTS THAT MITT IS DEVELOPING A SPINOFF PROGRAM TO HEAVY EQUIPMENT TRAIN ENTRY-LEVEL HEAVY CONSTRUCTION WORKERS.

OPERATOR TRAINING he eight-week HEOC program — > Proof of skills certification is a valuable asset to developed in partnership with construction companies. When bidding on contract PROGRAM GAINS Tthe Manitoba Heavy Construction Association (MHCA) and Manitoba or subcontract work, certification demonstrates their Construction Sector Council (MCSC) commitment to training, education and excellence. TRACTION — is intended for workers who have some experience operating heavy BY PAT ST. GERMAIN equipment. But after fielding almost already have their certifications as far as provided feedback, and Stuart says 100 calls from people who have no safety and entry-level skills.” some suggested elements of the previous experience, MITT plans to offer Meanwhile, the first HEOC program is program should be more challenging, an introductory program next year. being enhanced to align more closely with recognition of prior learning. For example, students may already have “We want to create this other program with the training needs of experienced operators. certification for safety courses that were that will help them get their foot in the included in the HEOC curriculum. door in the industry,” MITT Sr. Manager, Unique among heavy construction Business Development, Beverlie training programs in Manitoba, the The inaugural class of 16 students Stuart says. program had public-sector as well as included a mix of entry-level participants and experienced heavy “There are so many people that industry support. The federally funded Canada-Manitoba Job Grant reduced equipment operators. The next class will are interested in a career in heavy cater to experienced heavy equipment construction … and when the calls direct costs to employers investing in worker training, and the province operators. “Experienced operators were coming in there were a number of would receive credit for prior training females that were calling, which really is provided $150,000 to help buy state- of-the-art simulators. Toromont CAT which could reduce classroom and quite interesting to us. They have a real practicum requirements,” Stuart says. keen interest in pursuing that career.” donated funds and Brandt Tractor donated three simulators to the Upon completion of the program, Stuart says MITT is looking at developing program, which combined classroom participants will receive an advanced a comprehensive program for entry- instruction with hands-on experience operator certificate, which is a valuable level workers in the industry that would operating hydraulic excavators, loaders, asset to construction companies. When cover essential skills, safety courses, motor graders and dozers. bidding on contract or subcontract work-site document use and heavy work, certification demonstrates their The simulators — which track operators’ >The simulators — which track operator skill and equipment-simulator training. The commitment to training, education and program would be timed to wrap up skills, productivity and safety as students excellence. equipment safety as students complete a series at the start of the construction season, complete a series of lesson plans — drastically reduced the cost of training The program was designed to be of lesson plans — drastically reduced the cost of which would allow students to segue mobile, and MITT is working with training to about $5,800 per student, as opposed directly into a practicum. to about $5,800 per student, as opposed to as much as $17,000 in the field. industry partners to find a financially to as much as $17,000 in the field. “So it’s ideal for companies that are feasible way to deliver it in northern and looking to hire,” Stuart says. “As opposed Students who completed the course First Nations communities. ■ to somebody off the street, they would in late February in the initial program

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10 WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2016 A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

TURN IN THE ROAD FROM DOCTORS WITHOUT BORDERS TO HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION

BY BOB ARMSTRONG

BUILDING A NEW HIGHWAY INTERCHANGE FOR WINNIPEG COMMUTERS MIGHT SEEM LIGHTYEARS AWAY FROM PROVIDING CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION TO DESPERATE REFUGEES IN A WAR-TORN COUNTRY, BUT TO DIANA NICHOLSON THEY’RE JUST TWO WAYS OF USING HUMAN INGENUITY TO SOLVE PROBLEMS.

urrently, the project manager for Nelson River “We’re not everybody’s favourite people when we’re In Central African Republic and South Sudan, the Construction on the Highway 59-Perimeter working in the lanes,” she says, noting that work is camps came under attack by rebel forces, and workers CHighway interchange, Nicholson spent three scheduled so that two lanes are kept open at rush hour. on occasion had to retreat to a bunker. In Sierra Leone, years working as an engineer with the aid agency she worked on sanitation systems during the West Doctors Without Borders. For Nicholson, who graduated in 2006 with a degree African Ebola crisis, donning spacesuit-like personal in biosystems engineering from the University of protection suits and taking her own temperature daily Conditions in the two jobs could hardly be more Manitoba, heavy construction is a sharp left turn from to monitor for signs of infection. different, but both involved making effective use her previous path. of resources to ensure public safety and develop Constructing latrines, showers and water wells to needed infrastructure. “Luckily engineering teaches you how to learn really provide survival facilities for camps with as many as fast, and I’ve been taken under the wing by my boss.” 50,000-60,000 people brought her face-to-face with As a subcontractor on the Hwy 59 project, Nelson people who have nothing. River Construction is putting down base materials and Working for Doctors Without Borders, she oversaw doing all the paving. As project manager, Nicholson development of safe drinking water supplies and “The first time we set up one of those taps I saw that ensures that the work happens on time, on budget sanitary disposal sites for medical and other waste water really is life – just the sheer joy of people being and in accordance with the “hundreds and hundreds” in refugee camps and clinics in Chad, Central African able to turn on a tap and have clean water,” she says. of pages of specifications intended to assure the Republic, South Sudan and Sierra Leone. durability and safety of the new roadway. Earlier this year, Nicholson received a University of It was harrowing work for the young engineer, who Manitoba Distinguished Alumni Award or Outstanding “The intersection is a lot more complicated than most earned a Master’s degree in biosystems engineering Young Alumni in recognition of her aid work. This winter, people would realize,” she says. and international development from Guelph University when construction season wraps up in Manitoba, she in 2010. plans to return to wherever she’s needed on another Those hundreds of pages of specifications demonstrate contract with Doctors Without Borders. ■ that highway construction is far more complex than the average passing driver might realize. Specifications detail how much granular material (gravel in various sizes) goes under the road; the slope as the road rises to the overpass; the angles of curves; design factors intended to make the road safer and longer-lasting — even factors affecting the ability of snowplows to move snow off the road.

> Just as in other kinds of construction, road builders continually adapt to new materials and techniques to improve results

Just as in other kinds of construction, road builders continually adapt to new materials and techniques to improve results. Nicholson notes that the interchange project is one of the first in Manitoba to use a new base layer called a drainable stable base. The material allows water to drain out from underneath the roadway in order to prevent the freeze and thaw cycles that damage our roads. “Everything is continually reviewed to make sure our roads last longer,” she says.

Adding to the complexity of the job is the fact that it’s an extremely busy intersection, travelled by commuters who live north of Winnipeg, trucks bypassing the city on the north Perimeter and people going to and from Lake Winnipeg’s east-side communities. > Engineer Diana Nicholson is a project manager for Nelson River Construction. B

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A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2016 11

THIS IS MY WORKPLACE. SLOW DOWN BY WENDY KING SAFE ROADS CAMPAIGN URGES DRIVER CAUTION IN CONSTRUCTION ZONES

WORKER SAFETY IS THE NO. 1 PRIORITY IN HEAVY CONSTRUCTION, AND SAFETY MANAGERS DO JUST WHAT THEIR TITLE SUGGESTS — MANAGE ALL FACETS OF SAFETY FOR THEIR CREWS, INCLUDING TRAINING, IMPLEMENTING SAFE WORK PROCEDURES AND REGULATORY COMPLIANCE.

ut no matter how diligently they “We’ve had incidents where frustrated Tara Baschuk, safety coordinator at that ignoring flaggers and reduced speed perform their jobs, there’s one drivers have ignored directions because Bituminex Paving, says she’s had flaggers zones can result in tickets and hefty fines. Bhazard in which the motoring they don’t want to wait so they go around take themselves off the streets because of public plays an important role: vehicle the lineup of vehicles that have stopped, close calls. “The roadway, the parking lot, the traffic in construction zones. putting themselves, our flaggers and our development — that’s our office, so please work crews in danger,” Burtnick says. “They were worried or they were scared, respect us when we are at work. We want “We do hazard assessments prior to the and that is ultimately what the road safety all of our workers to go home in one piece.” workday every day, and safety meetings Since 2004, the annual SAFE Roads campaigns are about,” she says. every week, and the topic that comes up a campaign has used billboards, transit ads Baschuk says the industry has introduced lot is protecting our safety due to having to and other media to urge drivers to slow “If people won’t pay attention to that, I and embraced a variety of safety initiatives deal with the motoring public,” says Mike down and use caution in construction don’t know what else we can possibly do to protect workers, but it still needs Burtnick, safety manager at Maple Leaf zones and elsewhere on our roadways … there are lives at stake.” cooperation from the public. Construction. where workers are present, including Distracted drivers are a problem too, ”The new regulations for flagger apparel, emergency services personnel, utility looking down at their phones or dealing more visible signage and stronger penalties Flaggers, who direct traffic safely around repair persons and equipment operators. work sites, are the most visible workers with other things in their vehicles. for traffic violations in construction zones in construction zones, and often they are At the launch for the 2016 SAFE Roads are things the whole industry is completely Burtnick says drivers also speed through at the greatest risk. The biggest concerns campaign — This is My Workplace. Slow onboard with, and it has made a huge construction sites because they think there are drivers who fail to obey speed limits, Down — Manitoba Heavy Construction difference,” she says. is no one working. But lane closures mean pay attention to traffic control signs or Association president and SAFE Roads people may be on the site at any time. “We do everything we can on our side of flagger instructions. Driver frustration due committee chair Chris Lorenc said the it, but when we send our crews out to a to construction delays can be a danger message is getting through. He cited “It could be a supervisor stopping by on a work site we require the cooperation of the when it is directed at flaggers or others research that shows 84 per cent of people Sunday or a Saturday after a heavy rainfall, driving public to help ensure the safety of on a construction site. Burtnick says that reached through SAFE Roads campaigns checking to make sure the site is ready to our workers.” ■ flaggers have had extremely close calls are more considerate of workers. go for the next day,” he says. and even contact with vehicles. In some instances, protective barriers are ignored But not all motorists are getting the Burtnick would like to ensure that new or even moved. message. drivers in particular are taught to be aware

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12 WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2016 A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

> L. Chabot Enterprises vice-president Nicole Chabot at the company’s Gull Lake sand and gravel pit. AGGREGATE RESOURCES ARE VITAL TO INFRASTRUCTURE

BY PAT ST. GERMAIN

AGGREGATE PRODUCERS ARE THE ROCK STARS OF THE HEAVY CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY, PLAYING A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN ALL INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS.

and, gravel, backfill, limestone and depleted. Through Manitoba’s Pit & Quarry concrete and asphalt aggregates Rehabilitation program, an environmental go into residential and commercial levy on aggregates provides funding for site developments, sewers, roads and remediation. However, there are occasional pedestrianS walkways. And a variety of specialty conflicts with neighbours. products come into play, such as rip rap for “Sometimes these pits are in areas where we’re lakeshore and riverbank stabilization, pea surrounded by residents,” Kaskiw says. “A good gravel for landscaping or dog runs, and portion of our time is spent to ensure that we are processed sand to provide traction on icy roads. able to extract the aggregate in harmony with L. Chabot Enterprises vice-president Nicole the people around us.” Chabot says the family company has provided Often, aggregate mine sites are attractive to single loads of aggregate for mom-and- trespassers who see them as playgrounds for pop projects, and it has supplied and placed swimming and riding recreational vehicles. But hundreds of thousands of tonnes for major they’re workplaces where safety is a priority. highway projects. “There are inherent dangers in some of these It supplied products and services for both the areas — there’s some deep water, there’s Red River Floodway and the floodway expansion some unstable slopes,” Kaskiw says, adding his and is a primary aggregate supplier for City of company has hired security guards to patrol idle Winnipeg Public Works projects and municipal sites. aggregate and gravelling programs throughout Kaskiw, whose company provided aggregate the capital region. for Investors Group Field, MTS Centre, IKEA, During construction of CentrePort Canada Way, CentrePort Canada and other prominent Chabot supplied over 600,000 tonnes of material projects, says limestone extraction requires that met specific electro-chemical property blasting and drilling, which is another potential requirements for mechanically stabilized earth source of conflict with residents. However, he walls for the project. sits on a local committee that meets monthly “Our industry has some pretty high quality and includes citizen-representation to address standards. There’s quality in the products, there’s any concerns that arise. responsibility in the extraction … it’s a lot more “I’m extremely proud of some of the work that’s complex than you might imagine,” she says. gone on in that area,” he says. “We can always “We’re always looking for new technologies, strive for improvement, but I really look at that particular quarry committee as an ideal situation

“Our industry has some pretty high quality standards. There’s quality in the products, there’s Site Preparation and Development responsibility in the extraction … it’s a lot more complex than you might imagine.” Sub-divisions | Road Building Surface Water Drainage and Retention Ponds new products and services that will put us at the cutting edge of the industry, but also allow for harmony between producers and residents.” us to extract responsibly. At the end of the day For example, following complaints earlier Wastewater Lagoon Construction and Repairs we have to keep in mind that we’re working in a this year, the committee admonished some community and we’re part of that community.” operators to adhere to strict guidelines that Sewer and Water | Granular Supply Chabot and James Kaskiw, area manager for govern operating hours. LeHigh Inland Group of Companies, point out As well, producers participate in the annual Custom Hauling | Snow Removal that pits and quarries are long-term operations Stonewall Quarry Days celebration. This that span multiple generations. Workers tend summer, they provided guided tours of quarries to live in the communities where they operate, to educate residents about the sites and remove and businesses and municipalities benefit from some of the mystery surrounding them. having affordable aggregate resources in close Chabot notes that the Manitoba Heavy Earth Max Construction Inc. proximity to local infrastructure projects. Chabot Construction Association has initiated similar witnessed that first-hand when her company community outreach efforts in Springfield and CALL TODAY: 204-344-5760 opened a new pit in Gull Lake in 2011. other Capital Region municipalities. Kaskiw says the province’s Mines Branch has “I think that speaks to the desire of our industry Email: [email protected] set apart tracts of land which are deemed to give back and do things for the community,” aggregate extraction areas, and where no other she says. “We’re not just here to extract and development can take place until deposits are move on.” ■ www.earthmax.ca Stony Mountain, MB C M Y K

A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2016 13

COMMITMENT TO SAFETY IS A SOURCE OF PRIDE FOR LAFARGE CANADA

BY JIM TIMLICK

FOR MARK GEIGER, THE COR™ of a SAFE Work Manitoba Award for the company’s pipe manufacturing (CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION) promoting a safe work culture. operation, COR™ advisors noted LOGO IS MORE THAN JUST A Geiger says Lafarge’s safety efforts that while all of the relevant safety SYMBOL THAT RECOGNIZES A SAFE have been shaped in no small way by information was made available, WORKPLACE — IT’S ALSO A BADGE working with the Construction Safety more needed to be done to visually OF HONOUR. Association of Manitoba (CSAM) as part demonstrate proper safety procedures to employees. eiger is the provincial health of COR™. and safety coordinator One of the primary benefits of being COR™ is proof that we are serious for Lafarge Canada, the COR™ certified, he says, is that it allows about our safety program … and are largest diversified supplier Lafarge to remain competitive in an willing to be transparent and have Gof construction materials in North someone come in and look at it with increasingly competitive marketplace. America. The company employs more us,” Geiger says. “Our customers expect it because they than 100,000 people, including some want proof of a safety program,” he says. Another benefit of being part of the 3,000 employees in Western Canada. COR™ program is that it provides “Sometimes we’re only trucking participating companies with access All of Lafarge’s four Winnipeg- product to their site, but in other cases to a wealth of valuable resources. For based facilities are COR™ certified, we have employees working on their example, an advisor is scheduled to meaning they have implemented site. (Customers) want to know we visit Lafarge in November to provide a comprehensive health and safety have a safety culture and we meet a training to a number of employees in program that meets standards set by minimum standard.” leadership positions. members of the Canadian Federation COR™ certification is valid for a three- of Construction Safety Associations While there is a cost involved with some year period. To remain certified, a (CFCSA), including the Manitoba Heavy of these training programs, Geiger says company must conduct an annual Construction Association (MHCA). it’s been money well spent for Lafarge. internal audit. It must also take part Lafarge’s Manitoba operations regularly in an independent audit every three “They don’t just say here’s the program, exceed the 96 per cent mark as part of years and demonstrate specific training go out and do it,” Geiger says. the COR™ auditing process, and that’s a elements have been maintained during “They’re there to help facilitate things, source of pride for the company. that time. whether that’s leadership training, “We are happy to fly the COR™ banner,” Geiger says Lafarge’s management whether that’s coming out and doing Geiger says. “It means something to team views the auditing process as an some specific training, whether it’s us and it means something to our opportunity rather than a burden. the audit itself. There’s a great team customers. It’s proof we’re as good as out there.” ■ “It’s really a quality control process and we say we are.” allows us to identify opportunities to The company’s commitment to get better. It’s a process that makes us The company’s commitment to providing an effective health and safety providing an effective health and safety take a good hard look at ourselves and management system for employees hasn’t gone unnoticed. In September, management system for employees identify ways we can improve,” he says. Lafarge was one of four recipients of a SAFE Work Manitoba Award for hasn’t gone unnoticed. In September, For example, during a recent audit at Lafarge was one of four recipients promoting a safe work culture.

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14 WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2016 A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS

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WHEN SUPERIOR ASPHALT WAS FOUNDED IN WINNIPEG IN 1984, THE COMPANY HAD ONLY FOUR EMPLOYEES. AS SUCH, IT WASN’T DIFFICULT TO ENSURE ALL ITS EMPLOYEES WERE Tri-Core Projects is a diversified Contracting Firm specializing in: OPERATING SAFELY. BUT AS THE COMPANY HAS EMERGED AS • Bridges, Highways, Road Construction • Large Diameter Tunnel Boring and Pipe Jacking A GROWING FORCE IN THE ASPHALT FIELD — EMPLOYING 40- • Environmental Infrastructure and Site Remediation/Rehabilitation 50 PEOPLE IN PEAK SEASON — IT FOUND THE NEED TO BUILD • Shoreline Stabilization • Waterline, Land drainage, and Wastewater Systems UNIT 5 - 1595 BROOKSIDE BLVD. WINNIPEG, MB. R2R 1V6 A SAFETY CULTURE. • Drilled Caissons and Structurally Engineered Excavations PH: 204- 942-1516 | F: 204-942-0693 • Foundations www.tri-core.ca ortunately, as a member of the “Our president, Jody Rideout, is a [email protected] Manitoba Heavy Construction very safety-conscious person and his FAssociation (MHCA), Superior goal from the beginning was for the Asphalt has access to top-notch company to be a safety leader in our We specialize in Road Building, Earth Moving, Site safety programs. industry. We appreciate the COR™ Development, Water Management, Flood Protection, program because it creates a culture. MHCA’s WORKSAFELY™ programs, You have to establish a safety pro- & Wastewater Stabilization Ponds. particularly COR™ (Certificate of Rec- gram that meets certain standards 4 Generations of experience, building hundreds of ognition) and SECOR™ (Small Em- and you’re held accountable to those. ployer Certificate of Recognition), Once the system’s in place, it makes kilometres of Highways and Drainage across Manitoba. help companies like Superior Asphalt everybody accountable to main- make safety a priority. “When you employ a small number of people, it’s easy to keep them shel- Voltage Power tered, but as the number increases focuses on new it can be a little tougher to manage and make sure everybody is on the projects, upgrades or same page. Since we’ve introduced maintenance in the these safety programs, injuries have immediately gone down,” says safety areas of overhead director Scott Williamson. lines, underground “I give credit to the safety program transmission and for helping us educate employees on the dangers and teach them how to distribution projects. conduct themselves safely in a work environment. At the end of the day, taining the system.” nobody wants to see anybody go We are proud members of Voltage Power focuses on new pro- M.H.C.A & COR Certified. Tri-Line’s expertise was called on by home with a serious injury.” ARBORG, MB the Province to construct the 2011 Lake St. Martin jects, upgrades or maintenance in the Williamson notes that the safety pro- (204) 981-1799 | (204) 378-2879 Emergency Outlet. areas of overhead lines, underground grams also keep Superior Asphalt on transmission and distribution projects. its toes. Since there’s an annual re- certification process that includes an Safety programs must adapt to the audit, the company has to remain dili- demands of new technology in order gent and disciplined when it comes to be effective, and Evinger says to managing the program. that is one of the strengths of the COR™ program. COR™ certification has also been good for the company’s bottom line. “We’re able to use a digital platform Asphalt Paving Parking Lots to help organize and implement our “From the financial aspect, you can safety program,” he says. “There’s a bid on jobs from government and two-pronged approach here, not only city because they require you have for education and retraining, but edu- Concrete Paving some kind of safety program in place,” Subdivision cation and retraining on the technol- Williamson says. “By putting safety at ogy side as well.” the forefront of our operations, it has Development opened up the door to work on par- MHCA safety programs have inspired Base & ticular jobs.” Voltage Power to go a step further to earn Occupational Health and Safety Excavation The programs don’t just benefit well- international certification. Evinger established companies. MHCA mem- Asphalt says MHCA makes quality programs ber Voltage Power made safety a available if companies are willing to priority right from the start. When it Supply put in the effort. Sewer & Water was founded in 2014, the company’s immediate goal was to become “COR™ is a tool and it’s only as good as COR™ certified. the operator,” he says. “If you’re going to do it, you can’t just do it for show. “We started it from the ground You’ve got to put in a 110 per cent Phone: (204) 237.6253 www.bituminex.com up,” says Voltage health and effort. Somebody’s life may depend safety manager John Evinger. Fax: (204) 237.5032 [email protected] on it.” ■ C M Y K

A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2016 15

s part of a project initiated Atkinson notes CCA embarked on the “There’s also a greater interest on the by the Manitoba Heavy project before the Truth & Reconciliation part of governments in Canada to INDIGENOUS Construction Association Commission (TRC) released its encourage, promote and even require (MHCA) in 2014, the Canadian 2015 report, which contained a call a closer working relationship between ConstructionA Association (CCA) has to corporate Canada to establish non-Indigenous and Indigenous ENGAGEMENT produced an Indigenous Engagement respectful partnerships, consult with communities, so to a great degree we Guide to help mainstream companies Aboriginal communities, improve see this as making good business sense establish business-to-business employee education surrounding to try and be a little bit ahead of the GUIDE relationships with Indigenous peers. Indigenous culture and “offer long- curve,” Atkinson says. “There was nothing like this that was TAKES PRACTICAL APPROACH specific to the construction industry,” “A lot of emerging large infrastructure says CCA president Michael Atkinson. “We decided that we would develop a projects, particularly in the resource sector, guide that was really directed at small are in areas of the country that are either and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) Indigenous lands or are in communities and companies, which is the vast majority of the construction industry.” where the Indigenous population is MHCA president Chris Lorenc co- relatively higher.” chaired the management committee and the guide was produced in Prepared in consultation with partnership with Indigenous Works term sustainable opportunities from Indigenous businesses and mainstream (formerly the Aboriginal Human economic development projects.” companies that have forged successful Resource Council), a Saskatoon-based “A lot of emerging large infrastructure partnerships with Indigenous non-profit organization that facilitates projects, particularly in the resource organizations in the past, the guide has engagement and working partnerships sector, are in areas of the country that a strong focus on the need to establish between Indigenous and non- are either Indigenous lands or are in trust and build relationships over time. Indigenous groups. communities where the Indigenous “It’s a process: it’s an involving process Indigenous Works president Kelly population is relatively higher,” Atkinson which you really can’t do without having Lendsay says the 40-page guide went says. “It would appear to us that there some understanding of the Indigenous through more than a dozen drafts to is a huge opportunity for businesses to population to begin with,” Atkinson says. ensure it would be concise, reader- engage the Aboriginal or Indigenous “Part of it is you really have to do your friendly and practical, with step-by- business community to co-venture, homework. You really have to try and step advice for building effective joint-venture or partner in those areas.” garner an understanding of Indigenous partnerships. While the guide is not aimed at people, their history, their culture and Lendsay says the guide is a first for recruitment, Atkinson points out that their way of life.” Indigenous Works in that it’s national the median age of Canada’s 1.5-million- The guide is free to CCA members, who in scope, and in that it’s tailored to a strong Indigenous population is 27, can download it at the CCA’s website at specific industry. unlike other demographics that are www.caa-acc.com. Atkinson says it may aging out of the workforce. “I’m really hoping that it’s going to be made available to non-members on a be a call to action for other industry That means Indigenous businesses case-by-case basis. ■ associations to say, ‘We should get one not only bring local expertise, but customized for our industry, look what they may also have better access to a CCA did.’ ” local workforce.

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