Ontario’s Attorney General, Doug Downey, announced that following a fair and open selection process, ADR Chambers was selected as the successful candidate to serve as the Authorized Nominating Authority for the province’s new prompt payment regime. This new body will oversee the adjudication process for construction disputes, including the training and qualification of adjudicators.
This adjudication system brings into force a new process that will give people and businesses a cost-effective and efficient alternative to settling payment disputes in court. Starting October 1, 2019, subject to applicable transition rules, parties to construction contracts and subcontracts will be able to receive a binding decision from an experienced construction adjudicator in approximately six weeks, a process that could take months or even years in the court system.
“The new construction adjudication system, as overseen by the Authorized Nominating Authority, will cut through the red tape that slows down the dispute resolution process – getting projects back on track and ensuring workers are paid on time,” said Downey.
The Construction Act is intended to regulate how payments are made, to help ensure that workers who have provided services or materials during a construction project are paid for their work.
“OGCA welcomes the appointment of the ANA as the vital last step in implementing the new Construction Act,” said Clive Thurston, president of the Ontario General Contractors Association. “It will oversee and implement mandatory adjudication of construction disputes for the prompt payment requirements that will be in effect this October. The Construction Act is the biggest change to construction law in a generation and we require the ANA to provide quality adjudication services to ensure a smooth transition.”
The Authorized Nominating Authority will be self-funded and operate independently of government.
ADR Chambers has provided dispute resolution services across Canada for over 20 years.
