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OTTAWA — The federal government’s recent announcement that it has appointed the council to deliver the National Infrastructure Assessment after “four years on the shelf,” is welcome news to the Canadian ��������ion Association (CCA).

According to a release, the newly appointed Canadian Infrastructure Council will prioritize housing-enabling infrastructure like water, wastewater, public transit, active transportation and waste management.

“We are thrilled to see the federal government finally take leadership in addressing the need for a long-term plan for Canada’s infrastructure,” says Rodrigue Gilbert, CCA president, in a statement. “While the scope of the council is incomplete, we do appreciate the government finally listening to the industry responsible for building Canada’s infrastructure.”

The initiative has long been a goal of the CCA’s advocacy, with representatives recently raising awareness of the issue on Parliament Hill last month.

And while the industry is pleased overall with the announcement, the CCA states, the newly formed council “lacks clear industry and financial representation.”

“CCA has long urged the minister of housing, infrastructure and communities to appoint an independent representative from the construction industry to the council,” the association says. “Failing to consult with those that build the infrastructure Canadians rely on, and those that finance it, will create significant challenges. Without this input, there will be a lack of understanding on key issues, limitations, and opportunities that exist in building a strong and resilient Canada.” 

The association intends to continue to monitor the progress of the council.