Industry raises concerns

SO called cowboy contractors have been giving the construction industry a bad reputation, according to the president of Master Builders Association (MBA) Vijay Raghwan.

In a statement from the Construction Industry Council (CIC) he said contracts had been broken, builders not finishing their work as well as a number of other complaints were affecting the consumers.

Mr Raghwan made this comment during a membership drive to increase the association’s numbers.

“We have 38 members, all solid in the industry,” he said.

“Belonging to Master Builders is an assurance to the industry that every member is committed to maintaining the highest standards through quality and fair workplace practices.

“We will not tolerate questionable activities in the association.”

Much of Fiji’s infrastructure was said to have been constructed over the years, by members of the MBA which was active in the country since 1961.

According to CIC president Gordon Jenkins the importance of a strong MBA was invaluable to the construction industry.

“Certainly the strength is in its numbers.

“The more builders and suppliers as members in MBA, within its highly ethical framework, the more consumers will turn to the association to employ its members.

“It is an important step towards cleaning up the industry,” he said.

MBA was stated to continue its efforts to increase membership as several key construction companies had committed to joining the association.

“While yesterday was the launch of increasing the membership, there really is no closing date of our efforts. We will continue to encourage new membership,” said MBA vice-president Steve Chand.