The significant infrastructural development experienced locally over the past decade has seen the construction industry evolve into a pillar to our economy and a key to the country’s continued growth. It is now intrinsically connected to our real estate market, touristic sector, the retail and hospitality industries. The livelihood of a wide ecosystem of self-employed and small enterprises is closely linked to the cycle of the construction industry.

In sustaining the current growth patterns and guaranteeing safety to workers, operators, and ultimate end-users the sector requires a set of standards. Standards which shall indeed ensure improved safety, ensure accountability and in general raise the professional profile of the whole sector. The further professionalisation of the construction industry is the next logical step towards cementing the country’s status as a high-quality destination.

Demolition, Excavation and Construction Works represent a substantial part of the construction industry. To date the only licence available in relation to these three activities is that of the Licensed Mason which does not cover all construction activity that has been undertaken for many years notwithstanding the distinctive nature of the various activities carried out by operators and the high risks associated both for the operators and third parties alike.

Licensing is required to set unequivocal responsibilities on operators, ensure that skills within the sector are improved and to give further enforcement powers to the Building and Construction Authority in cases where contractors are in breach of regulations.