Ceylon Institute of Builders presents strategic proposals to Presidential candidates

The Ceylon Institute of Builders (CIOB) has recently submitted a detailed set of proposals to Sri Lanka’s leading Presidential candidates, spotlighting the pivotal role of the construction industry. With approximately 2 million individuals employed directly or indirectly within the sector, and its potential to contribute up to 10% to the nation’s GDP, the proposals outline 28 critical steps to enhance and support this vital industry. Commenting on this CIOB President Dr. Rohan Karunaratne says: “The construction industry in Sri Lanka can have a big impact on the election of a new President of this country. 

That is because about 2 million people are directly and indirectly employed in the construction industry. When taken together with them and their families, it represents a substantial portion of the electorate. It also includes people from the highest to the lowest levels of society, from professionals to workers in the construction industry. In another aspect, this industry has the potential to contribute nearly 10% to the GDP. And if we export this industry, we can bring about 2 billion dollars. So it is very important that new Governments know the importance of this high-capacity industry.”

The CIOB’s proposals encompass 28 key issues aimed at uplifting the construction industry in Sri Lanka. Key recommendations include:

• Restarting of construction projects
• Encourage funding agencies to restart and fund new infrastructure projects
• Attract FDIs to the country
• Establishing a Standing Advising Committee on Construction Projects (SACCP)
• Establishing a Infrastructure fund or bank for the construction industry
• Recognise the construction sector as an industry
• Regulate the procurement process of the construction industry to avoid corruption
• Encourage people to invest in development projects, via reduced interest rates
• Government support to export the construction industry
• Directives issued by Construction Industry Development Authority (CIDA) should be legally accepted. 
• Help solve industry disputes by officially recognising Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
• Establish a system to analyse unsolicited proposals
• Enhance Recognition, training, job security, of construction skills and professionals to retain them in the country. Enhance Industry Research and Innovation.
• Directive to adhere to the CIDA Act, circulars, directives etc.