Waneta expansion project keeps people home
By Contributor
On behalf of the Allied Hydro Council of BC, the local labourer’s union recently undertook an informal survey of approximately 100 workers employed at the Waneta Expansion Project to determine how many workers have been able to stay in the area, move back, or relocate to the area as a result of the project.
The survey found that 25 per cent of workers moved back to the Kootenays or relocated to the area while 60 per cent were able to remain at home with their families while working on the project.
Hiring for the project is done through Columbia Hydro Constructors Ltd. (CHC) under the terms and conditions of a collective agreement with the Allied Hydro Council of BC.
Under this agreement, hiring preference is given to local residents (living within 100 kilometres of the project) and members of equity employment groups.
“The findings of this survey support this project as great news for local workers,” says Chuck Chatten, representative from the Labourer’s Union. “The feedback received from the workers was consistent – they are happy to be able to stay close to home and be a part of a project with such an emphasis on safety, quality and the environment.”
The contractor, SNC-Lavalin Inc., has announced they expect construction activities to slow down over the holidays to give workers a chance to celebrate the holiday season with loved ones.
The Waneta Expansion Project is a partnership between Fortis Inc., Columbia Power Corporation, and Columbia Basin Trust. For more information please visit: www.columbiapower.org/wanetaexpansion.
Comments