Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) has postponed changes to its Contract Security Program in response to concerns expressed by ACEC-Canada and its industry partners. Changes to the Contract Security Program, originally announced on June 30, will now be delayed to October 4 from September 1.
ACEC-Canada, along with the Canadian Construction Association (CCA), National Trade Contractors Council of Canada (NTCCC) and the Facilities Operations & Maintenance Association of Canada (FOMAC), were not only concerned by the impact of the changes proposed by PSPC, but also with the lack of consultation with impacted stakeholders and the insufficient time for industry to prepare for these changes. While the intent of the changes was to improve the process for federal securities and reduce the current backlog of applications, the new rules would potentially make it difficult for smaller consultants and contractors to participate on government projects. Industry’s concerns were shared with the Honourable Anita Anand, PSPC Minister, which led to a roundtable discussion between industry experts from ACEC, CCA, NTCCC and FOMAC and senior government officials.
In addition to the one-month implementation delay, during which PSPC will continue to meet with industry associations, the department has also proposed a phased implementation approach to allow for possible adjustments to address industry concerns.
Information of the proposed changes and the new timeline can be found here.
ACEC-Canada thanks PSPC for acknowledging the concerns of industry and its commitment to further consultation moving forward.
