Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Canada’s construction economists are calling attention to oversights by the federal government, highlighting the pressing need for reforms to address the Canadian housing crisis and promote investments in Canada’s nation-building infrastructure.
The Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (CIQS), who represents Professional Quantity Surveyors (PQS) and Construction Estimator Certified (CEC), point to the federal government’s gaps in ensuring that Canada’s future infrastructure adheres to contemporary, cost-efficient standards. Construction Economists believe that deficiencies stem from government’s limited engagement with industry professionals skilled at evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of upcoming construction initiatives.
“While we welcome the government’s initial $13 billion capital investment in Build Canada Homes and the approval of several new major infrastructure projects, there must be a mechanism to ensure every dollar is efficiently utilized and that projects achieve their financial targets,” said Seán Hollywood, PQS and CIQS vice chair.
Engaging PQS and CECs, Canada’s construction economists can aid the government by integrating enhanced analysis, risk evaluation, and cost forecasting into the federal planning and procurement process.
“CIQS believes that while the federal government’s dedication to major national infrastructure projects, is commendable and the need for rapid housing construction is critical, there is more to explore,” said Ryan Hendricks, PQS and member of the CIQS Board of Directors. “By integrating cost-effectiveness and innovative construction methods like modular housing and factory built homes, we can pave the way for a more sustainable and affordable infrastructure landscape. The expertise held by construction economists is poised to be a valuable asset in this direction.”
Canada’s construction industry is the beating heart of the Canadian economy. Accounting for around 7.5 per cent of our GDP, the construction industry provides over 1.6 million Canadians and their families with good paying jobs. One out of every 13 workers in Canada earns a living from the construction industry.
Featured image: (L to R) Seán Hollywood, Tammy Stockley, and Ryan Hendricks, PQS, met with Thomas Osborne, MP for Cape Spear, NL, and Parliamentary Secretary to the President of the Treasury Board. (CIQS)
