Prompt payment legislation working group begins
The provincial government has invited MHCA to a working group as part of its consultation process leading up to introducing prompt payment rules.
The working group, which begins its work November 28, has been created to provide feedback on potential legislative amendments of the Builders’ Liens Act.
“We recognize the practicality of moving on near-term amendments to improve the provisions and protections for prompt payment down the chain of industry participants in a project contract,” MHCA President Chris Lorenc said.
Lorenc said preference of the MHCA and other partners in the construction industry was to undertake a comprehensive modernization of the Builders’ Liens Act, as recommended by the Manitoba Law Reform Commission, to address the numerous items necessary for strong prompt payment legislation.
However, he noted, “The provincial government has asked the industry to collaborate on changes for legislation in the coming session, with the intent of a more expansive amendment to the Builders’ Liens Act in the future, and we are cooperating on that effort.”
Ultimately, the goal is to see in Manitoba prompt payment legislation consistent with jurisdictions in Canada and elsewhere, embedding a transparent, strong process for prompt payment and accompanying adjudicative provisions.
