The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) is calling for governments at all levels and across the country to maintain a free-flowing system of trade and labour mobility between provinces.

Now more than ever, says the association, the movement of goods and services across borders is critical for the country’s economic recovery.

CCA has long advocated that reciprocity and the free movement of construction materials, services and personnel within Canada are essential elements of the national economy. This fact is only further emphasized, it says, as COVID-19 continues to cause disruptions not only in critical supplies but also in workforces.

“Some regions have been harder hit economically than others,” said CCA president Mary Van Buren. “But the solution is not to reflexively turn inward. Interprovincial trade barriers are inefficient, and do not support fair, transparent and competitive procurement processes. When we are facing one of the biggest challenges in our history, it is more important than ever that we stand united and work together.”

The association is also calling for governments to continue investing in important infrastructure projects across the country. It has also been pressing the federal government to reduce red tape and ensure that tenders are issued efficiently.

CCA members—70 percent of which are small and medium-sized, family-run businesses—are asking for a clear, balanced, fair and flexible national economic stimulus plan that includes significant investment in infrastructure, it says.