SLIA calls for policy on foreign construction craftsmen

by Lalith Fernandopulle

The surge in the number of foreign architects, consultants and contractors in Sri Lanka is a major challenge the construction sector has to grapple with in providing employment to local craftsmen, Sri Lanka Institute of Architects (SLIA) Immediate Past President Chitra Weddikkara said.

She said this does not mean that the architectural fraternity does not want foreign construction craftsmen but the fact is, a piece of the pie has to be given to local craftsmen as they are as able as any other from abroad.

“Foreign consultants are hired presuming local expertise cannot reach that standard. We have better expertise that is recognised globally, as it is said one is not recognised in one’s own country but elsewhere. Our craftsmen are hired by other countries and have proved their skills,” Weddikkara said. She said policy makers should recognise the expertise of local construction craftsmen and provide them more opportunities to display their skills.

The SLIA is by no meas against foreign architects working in the country. There should be a policy where foreign architects must enter into a joint venture with local architects or consultants to enable the transfer and exchange of technology and know-how which will benefit both sides. There is no proper policy for Sri Lankan consultants to secure this work.

The SLIA has presented a policy paper on hiring foreign consultants for projects here. However, it has not yet been taken up by the authorities.

“We hope the Minister of Construction and Megapolis Development will look into this matter and help Sri Lankan professionals to develop the construction industry and the built environment,” Weddikkara said adding “With the Megapolis plan being launched and many projects in the pipeline it is important that we become a part of these developments.”

There should be major development projects similar to the Mahaweli Development project to increase employment opportunities in the construction sector.

With the implementation of the Megapolis plan there will be several projects but we will have to wait till it is implemented. If there are no major investments most people will be out of work.

“We must retain our architects and obtain their expertise in development projects. There should be proper procurement policies when awarding contracts for big projects.

With regard to the growth of the construction sector, she said growth has been slow during the past year but the pace has picked up and the industry is confident that with projects envisaged by the government, the industry is poised to grow this year.

However, she said we have to create more capacity building for our professionals and the construction industry.

“The construction sector is a vital cog in the economy and is the engine of growth. It contributes between seven to eight percent to the GDP. The more construction cranes on the horizon, the better the economy is. There are a lot of construction cranes on our horizon which means our economy is poised to grow. It’s moving slowly but it’ll be better soon because the construction sector has forward and backward links. The backward links are the suppliers, manufacturers, down to the cottage industry. The construction sector will grow as the economy grows,” Weddikkara said.