Every year on April 28, Canada marks the National Day of Mourning. Provincially, flags at all government buildings are lowered to half-mast from sunrise to sunset.
April 28 was first declared as the National Day of Mourning by the Canadian Labour Congress in 1984. The day is now annually observed across Canada as a way to pay tribute to individuals killed, injured or stricken with illness in the workplace. In 2024, 27 workplace fatality claims were accepted by the Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board.
“Our condolences are with the friends, families and colleagues of those who lost their life to a workplace injury or illness,” Deputy Premier and Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Jim Reiter said. “Safety must be a priority in everything we do.”
“Today is an important day to reflect on how we can create safer workplaces, so each worker can return home safely at the end of the day,” Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board Chairperson Gord Dobrowolsky said. “There is always more work to be done to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses.”
In 2023, WorkSafe Saskatchewan, a partnership between the Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board and the Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety, released the 2023-2028 Fatalities and Serious Injuries Strategy to help prevent and reduce serious workplace injuries and fatalities.
Copies of the 2023-28 Fatalities and Serious Injuries Strategy are available at www.worksafesask.ca.
The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) congratulates Prime Minister Mark Carney and his new members of Parliament from across the country for winning the confidence of Canadians.
“For Mark Carney and his administration, now is the time for action,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, president of CCA. “A strong, sustainable and resilient Canada needs a strong, sustainable and resilient construction industry. To support Canadians, the next federal government must support construction.”
During the federal election, CCA launched Construction for Canadians, a campaign supported by Canada’s national, provincial and regional construction associations to emphasize the importance of construction to building the strong Canada that Canadians deserve.
“Beyond the economic impact, the construction industry builds the critical infrastructure Canadians rely on every day,” said Gilbert. “We build the schools where our children learn; the hospitals that care for us; the roads and highways that connect our communities and economies; and the housing that becomes our homes.”
Over the course of the campaign, Construction for Canadians received an outpouring of support from dozens of candidates across Canada and was featured in hundreds of media publications, discussing the priorities of the Canadian construction industry.
“This campaign has never been just about our industry – it’s about Canada and Canadians,” said Gilbert. “We cannot grow our economy or develop the infrastructure we need to compete globally and respond to political and economic challenges without construction.”
During this election, Carney and his candidates made various commitments which involve the construction industry. These commitments include:
Investing in critical, community-enabling infrastructure to connect Canadians and grow regional, provincial and economic economies.
Investing $5 billion for the new Trade Diversification Corridors Fund to support the development of trade infrastructure, including, but not limited to, ports, railways, airports and highways.
Deploying a made-in-Canada procurement strategy that prioritizes Canadian suppliers and supply chains.
Increasing labour mobility for skilled trades people between provinces and territories to address labour shortages.
“CCA will continue its work in close collaboration with the new government to ensure that Prime Minister Carney and his new administration keep their promises to the construction industry,” said Gilbert. “Only together can we build a strong foundation for Canada’s future.”
The Western Canada Roadbuilders & Heavy Construction Association (WCR&HCA) Board of Directors is calling on Prime Minister Mark Carney to share his vision for Canada, implement a four-pronged approach to address the economic impact of the trade war with the U.S. and help Canada emerge more resilient and stronger.
In a letter to Carney May 7, the WCR&HCA urged the Prime Minister, in his first 100 days in office, to deliver his vision, proposed direction and destination for Canada in a major policy address from a location in Western Canada. If accepted by the Prime Minister, that would be historic in nature, WCR&HCA president & CEO Chris Lorenc says.
Moreover, it would help assuage concerns that Western Canada alienation worries will be moot in a federal government that listens attentively, acts purposefully and is government for all the people of Canada, Lorenc says. The letter outlined a four-pronged national approach to respond to Trump’s tariffs. It noted the approach aligns with the Prime Minister’s comments in a recent press conference, in which he outlined the imperatives of focusing on national purpose, benefit and unity in a collaborative ‘Team Canada’ approach.
The Premiers of the four western provinces were also copied on the letter, which can be read here.
An Indigenous Action Plan being set in motion by the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) aims to engage and advance the participation of Indigenous Peoples within the organization and communities across Saskatchewan. SRC is proud to launch a new Indigenous Action Plan that centers on Indigenous Peoples, communities and businesses to help achieve shared goals. Continuing to build trust and strong relationships with Indigenous communities is a hallmark of this plan.
“The Saskatchewan Research Council has a long history of collaboration with First Nations and Métis communities, spanning more than 40 years in areas such as ecological studies, student enrichment and job training opportunities, and longer-term initiatives including remediation of former mine and mill sites in northern Saskatchewan,” Minister Responsible for SRC Warren Kaeding said. “The new Indigenous Action Plan further builds upon these relationships to ensure continued Indigenous participation in Saskatchewan’s key economic sectors and growing workforce.”
“Continuing to build trust and strong relationships with Indigenous communities is a hallmark of this plan,” president and CEO of SRC Mike Crabtree said. “Advancing reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples is not only the right thing to do, it’s simply good business. We encourage all our staff, collaborators and clients to embrace reconciliation each and every day.”
Of particular importance within the plan will be two new programs supported by the Employment pillar: an Indigenous Workforce Program and an Indigenous Summer Student Program, Kiskiyihta (Kiskee ih-taah), which is a Cree word meaning to learn or to know. Together, these programs will help SRC increase recruitment and hiring of Indigenous Peoples by collaborating with Indigenous educational institutions and training entities to develop strategies for the retention and advancement of Indigenous employees. The collaborating organizations will also support SRC in finding potential candidates for SRC job openings and for the Indigenous Summer Student Program.
Other important initiatives within the plan include the formation of an Indigenous Advisory Committee, increasing Indigenous procurement via SRC’s Indigenous Procurement Policy, growing the number of Indigenous learning opportunities for SRC employees, and strengthening meaningful engagement and collaboration with Indigenous communities and Tribal Councils.
In this federal election, construction will no longer be ignored. March 27 marks the official launch of the Construction for Canadians campaign, supported by 57 national, provincial and regional construction associations from coast to coast.
“A strong construction industry is the key to a strong Canada,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, president of the Canadian Construction Association (CCA). “To support long-term growth, the next federal government must make the necessary and overdue investments in trade-enabling infrastructure, workforce development and modernized procurement.”
Construction affects every Canadian. It shapes Canada’s physical landscape, grows the economy, connects communities and plays a critical role in building a prosperous and resilient country. However, underinvestment, workforce challenges and outdated policies, combined with Donald Trump’s threats and tariffs, are barriers to the growth Canadians need. To set Canada up for success, the next federal government must commit to supporting construction.
“The stakes are high. Without strategic investment, Canada risks falling further behind,” said Gilbert. “We need bold action to ensure our industry has the resources, talent and opportunities to keep building a strong economy and communities where Canadians can thrive.”
Canada’s economy runs on construction. With over 1.6 million workers and $151 billion in economic impact, this industry is the foundation of the future. Learn more about Construction for Canadians at construction4cdns.ca. Canadians can help spread the word by sharing #construction4cdns on social media and sending a letter to their riding candidates at construction4cdns.ca/get-involved.
The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM), alongside its member rural municipalities (RMs), highlights both the positive aspects and concerns regarding rural communities across the province in this year’s provincial budget.
“Today’s budget includes several priorities that our members have been advocating for, although there is still room for improvement. We believe that these initiatives will significantly support our RMs and the people living in rural Saskatchewan,” said Bill Huber, SARM president.
Budget Highlights
Municipal Revenue Sharing
SARM is pleased with the increase, recognizing that RMs are a key component in driving the economy. “The increase of 6.3 per cent from last year is always welcome; RMs have a major responsibility to provide the infrastructure that drives the major sectors of Saskatchewan’s economy,” said Huber. The municipal revenue sharing model is unique to Saskatchewan. The model provides a more consistent flow of dollars to rural municipalities, which is greatly appreciated by our members. Recognizing that RMs are a key component in driving our economy will be imperative as the province works towards achieving its 2030 growth plan goals. RMs will need continued and increased support going forward.
Agriculture
Agriculture is the backbone of rural Saskatchewan and SARM is pleased with the investment in the Ministry of Agriculture this year. SARM supports the direction the province is taking, with Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership receiving a $89.4M investment this year. The program is in its third year; it has been a strong program to date. Changes to the grazing formula will provide relief for producers renting crown land. The calculation will be more straightforward, and there will be a 20 per cent cap on rental fees. There will also be a $37 million investment in agricultural research to help producers stay competitive in other markets. These are all positives to note for this year.
Rural Integrated Roads for Growth (RIRG)
Funding for rural road and bridge infrastructure is imperative for RMs to continue to provide key economic sectors with a strategic transportation network that is effective and well maintained. While SARM appreciates the increase in RIRG funding, the rising costs and challenges of maintaining rural infrastructure remain a pressing concern. SARM will continue to advocate for additional funding to ensure that RMs can adequately maintain and upgrade rural roads and bridges. “While we recognize the challenges in balancing various priorities within budget constraints, we urge the government to ensure RMs have sufficient funding to maintain critical rural infrastructure across the province,” Huber said.
Health Care
The need for increased support of rural health care is increasingly apparent. Ensuring that all residents have access to quality health care is not just a matter of convenience, but a fundamental necessity that impacts the well-being and future of these communities. The virtual ER physician program and increases to EMS will improve response times and stabilize services across the province. The announced supports for 65 new and enhanced permanent full-time nursing positions in 30 rural and northern locations is also a welcomed opportunity for rural healthcare providers and our members. The health care file is always a top priority for SARM, and members see these as positive changes in improving rural health care in the province.
Policing and Public Safety
The bylaw court hub model announcement is a positive step towards SARM members being able to enforce local bylaws. SARM has been asking the province for increased measures to aid in bylaw enforcement, and the increase in courts will go a long way to providing that. Increases to the Sask. Marshals program and the RCMP are welcome sights. SARM will continue to advocate for larger investment in rural policing and safety, and supports all policing options available to rural Saskatchewan.
Moreover, SARM emphasizes the need for continued collaboration between the provincial government and RMs to address ongoing issues such as agricultural sustainability, health care, rural policing and rural infrastructure investments. As Saskatchewan’s association of rural municipalities, SARM remains committed to advocating for the interests and concerns of its members, working alongside the government to foster the development and prosperity of rural Saskatchewan.
Highways Minister David Marit and the Moose Jaw community celebrated the recent start of an estimated $33.7 million project to raise the height of Highway 2 over Trans-Canada Highway 1.
“Once completed, the project will improve safety and trucking efficiency over the long-term on Trans-Canada Highway 1 in Saskatchewan, which connects the province’s export-based economy to the rest of the country – and the world,” Marit said.
The overpass project involves demolishing the existing pair of nearly 60-year-old Highway 2 over Highway 1 bridges, which have a clearance height of 4.5 metres and have been hit multiple times over the years by oversized traffic. The new structures will have a clearance height of 5.3 metres.
“On behalf of City Council, we thank the Ministry of Highways for undertaking this critical overpass project,” said Moose Jaw Mayor, James Murdock. “This improvement not only benefits the trucking industry, which is a cornerstone of our local economy, but also enhances the overall safety and well-being of our community, and the thousands of tourists that use Highways 1 and 2 to visit us.”
The existing classic cloverleaf shaped on- and off-ramps will also be replaced with modern diamond-shaped on- and off-ramps.
“The Saskatchewan Trucking Association welcomes the investment in the Highway 2 overpasses at Moose Jaw,” said Susan Ewart, executive director of the Saskatchewan Trucking Association. “This project is a critical improvement that will enhance safety and efficiency for trucking operations on this key transportation corridor, while demonstrating the provincial government’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure.”
A Ministry of Highways contractor began staging in the area in mid-March and is expected to begin demolishing the northbound bridge the week of April 1.
During construction this year, Highway 2 will have two-way traffic on the southbound bridge while the new northbound bridge is being built. Next year, Highway 2 will have two-way traffic on the new northbound bridge while the new southbound bridge is being built.
Highway 1 underneath the bridges will be reduced to two-way traffic throughout the project. Traffic from the exit ramps will be detoured as needed.
The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, pending weather.
Presented by Northbridge Insurance, the Canadian Construction Association’s (CCA) National Awards ceremony was held on March 14, 2025, during the Annual Conference in Québec City. This year’s recipients represent the industry’s best and brightest. Congratulations to this year’s recipients for their exceptional contributions to the Canadian construction industry.
Geza Banfai, CCA 2024 Pinnacle Leader Award – sponsored by PCL Construction
An advocate for the Canadian construction industry for over 40 years, Geza’s commitment to legal reform, mentorship and the advancement of industry best practices promotes collaboration and efficiency in project execution, and helps the industry navigate challenges in an evolving legal landscape.
PCL Construction, CCA 2024 Environmental Achievement Award – sponsored by CHUBB Insurance Company of Canada
Recognizing PCL Construction for their Fairmont Royal York Decarbonization Project, which is a landmark achievement in sustainable construction, proving that even heritage buildings can evolve to meet modern environmental goals.
Construction Association of Nova Scotia, CCA 2024 Workforce Excellence Award – sponsored by RAISE Underwriting
Through a deep commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility, the Construction Association of Nova Scotia is shaping a workforce that truly represents the communities it serves.
Calgary Construction Association, CCA 2024 Partner Association Award – sponsored by Bockstael Construction
The Calgary Construction Association is more than an industry leader – it’s a driving force for change. Affectionately known as “Little CCA,” the association is reshaping the industry by prioritizing services and focus areas that members need, such as dedicated public and media relations, advocacy and workforce strategies, and membership engagement events and activities.
Westcor Construction Ltd., CCA 2024 Gold Seal Award – sponsored by Travelers Canada
Westcor is a general contracting and construction management services company that aims to build a better world for clients, community and employees. Reflected by its people-first culture, Westcor empowers its people to reach their full potential and promotes Gold Seal certification as a recognized standard of excellence.
Anthony DeVito, CCA 2024 Young Leader Award – sponsored by McMillan LLP
Anthony DeVito, GSC, is a passionate advocate for the construction industry and has spearheaded multiple initiatives to address skilled labour shortages. His community spirit is equally inspiring, and in his just-over-a-decade long career, he has earned the respect of colleagues and industry peers alike.
Groupe AGF, CCA 2024 Community Leader Award – sponsored by Marsh Canada Limited
For AGF and the Gendron family, community involvement and a culture of philanthropy are an integral part of corporate life. With over $4.5 million donated to causes across Canada and more than 750 employee-led fundraising events since its foundation’s inception, AGF unites its workforce, strengthens communities and demonstrates that collective action can create lasting impact.
Enviro-Ex Contracting Ltd., CCA 2024 Excellence in Innovation Award – sponsored by Intact Surety
Enviro-Ex Contracting’s Highway 97 Cottonwood Hill Phase Two Slide project overcame extraordinary geotechnical challenges, setting new standards for efficiency, safety and environmental responsibility, and stands as a testament to the potential of advanced technological integration in heavy civil construction.
PCL Construction, CCA 2024 National Safety Award – sponsored by Vipond Inc.
At PCL Construction, safety isn’t just a priority – it’s a core value of every worker, every shift and every site. This unwavering commitment has led to zero fatalities in the past three years and an extraordinary 16.7 million hours worked without a lost-time incident. “This year’s award recipients demonstrate the best of the best of our industry. Congratulations to everyone for the recognition of their great achievements,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, president of CCA.
The call for nominations for next year’s awards opens this fall.
