The Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada (MCA Canada) and the Canadian Institute of Plumbing and Heating (CIPH) welcome the federal government’s new $10-billion Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) Growth Plan to support Canada’s economic recovery, including $2 Billion for retrofits of buildings to make them more energy efficient.

“We are delighted to see that the government acknowledges retrofits are a key part of Canada’s low-carbon transition. Retrofitting is not just good for business, it will help to reduce the proportion of greenhouse gas emissions from the built environment, conserve water, and make places healthier and more comfortable to live and work in,” stated Ralph Suppa, president and general manager of CIPH.

CIPH and MCA Canada are encouraging the government to also invest in skilled trades training, support efficiency by addressing trade barriers, and partnering with provinces and municipalities on public projects. Both organizations believe that the recovery depends on our ability to work together and address issues that could be holding businesses back.

Businesses in the plumbing, heating and mechanical sectors already face challenges recruiting and retaining skilled labour with an aging workforce. Coupled with added costs due to pandemic precautions these businesses will greatly benefit from complementary investments that will deploy more energy efficient products while the economy rebounds and Canada moves toward its goal of Net-zero by 2050.

“Our members want us both to ensure the government keeps its word and gets money flowing to qualified projects quickly,” said Tania Johnston, CEO of MCA Canada.