Mr. Speaker, I rise to welcome the Canadian Construction Association to the House today.
Canada's construction industry is widely known to be about building structures and developing critical infrastructure, but it is important to recognize that construction is at the heart of our nation's economic strength, shaping communities like my hometown of Richmond, British Columbia and building the foundation of our nation's future. The sector employs 1.6 million people nationwide and contributes approximately $164 billion to the economy annually, accounting for 7.5% of Canada's GDP.
With over 18,000 member firms across the country, the Canadian Construction Association is the national voice for the construction industry on public policy and legal and standards development goals, along with contractors, suppliers and allied business professionals working in or with the sector. I ask all members to find some time to meet with the CCA and discuss the future of construction in Canada.