Local, unionized companies should be given priority when awarding contracts for the major construction projects coming to Campbell River, according to North Island MLA, Claire Trevena.

“It makes sense for the economic health of our community,” said Trevena. “Ensuring that the jobs remain local and with the wage, security and benefits union jobs provide, the construction projects will help secure the future for Campbell River.”

As the deadline approaches in awarding the contracts for the John Hart Generating Station and the Campbell River Regional Hospital, Trevena has written to the presidents and CEOs of BC Hydro and Island Health, to ask that priority be given to local tradespeople and to local union companies.

She’s also suggested that the gap in skills training can also be addressed through these projects.

“Work is expected to last a number of years in both – that’s the time span of an apprenticeship. If these projects are managed well, we could see young people starting at the beginning of construction and leave it at its end with their ticket completed,” she said.