The Tribune

By YOURI KEMP

Tribune Business Reporter

ykemp@tribunemedia.net

The Bahamian Contractors Association (BCA) yesterday said it was “disappointed” that itself and the construction industry are not represented on the Prime Minister’s Economic Recovery Committee.

Michael Pratt, the BCA’s president, told Tribune Business: “The prime minister must be commended for his efforts in fighting this pandemic. The new appointments are applauded, but I’m disappointed that the construction industry is not at the table.

“Construction is the third pillar in our society, and is scheduled to be included in the second tier to be opened. Post COVID-19 pandemic, we recognise the mobilisation of our workforce is critical to restoring our economy.

“Therefore we must be extremely careful when we consider our already stressed-out healthcare system upon reopening. It’s great to access academia, but we must use the engineers, architects and contractors who sit at the front of this industry. This industry is too important to be left to a sub-committee.”

Mr Pratt added that the last BCA Board meeting adopted the position to work towards opening the industry under the guidelines of health officials. “Post COVID-19, we do recognise that the mobilisation of forces and work projects is critical to restoring our economy. When we consider our already-stressed out healthcare system we must be extremely careful,” he added.

“We cannot make thoughtless or reckless decisions regarding our precious human resource of workers. We not only need construction crews and workers to continue the reconstruction post-Dorian, but also to restore this economy on its way back to a healthy state after the sector is reopened.

“There are serious questions and training that have to be addressed when considering the opening of construction in Nassau. We must ensure the continued healthy state of our construction workforce. We believe that we must do the best research we can, but we must follow the lead of our health officials to properly open the construction industry. “

Mr Pratt said the BCA stands ready to assist the Prime Minister with the phased re-opening of the Bahamian economy. “In Abaco and Freeport, according to a board member, significant construction is advancing under the guidelines of the Ministry of Health,” he added.