Ontario is launching an expert review of the Construction Lien Act that will include the examination of payment issues within the construction sector.
The provincial government has selected Bruce Reynolds as counsel to conduct the review, which was commissioned in response to stakeholder concerns related to prompt payment and effective dispute resolution in Ontario’s construction industry, such as encouraging timely payment for services and materials, and making sure payment risk is distributed fairly.
Reynolds is a leading expert in construction law and a senior partner at Borden Ladner Gervais LLP, a Ministry of the Attorney General news release says. “He represents various participants in the construction industry, including constructors, subcontractors, suppliers, private owners, municipalities, condominium corporations, homeowners, lenders, government agencies, insurers, sureties, and industry associations. Mr. Reynolds was chosen for his in-depth, practical experience and his scholarship in the field.”
Reynolds will be supported by BLG partner and co-Counsel Sharon Vogel, and an experienced legal team from BLG’s Construction Law Group.
It is anticipated that the review will be completed by December 2015, and will involve extensive consultation with the construction industry followed by a report to the Province. The report will include the results of the consultation process, the expert advice of Reynolds and his recommendations for changes, if necessary, the news release says.
An introductory letter will be issued to key stakeholders by the review, describing next steps and preliminary plans for stakeholder outreach.
In a statement, Ontario General Contractors Association president Clive Thurston said: “The OGCA applauds the Government in choosing Mr. Reynolds one of the most respected construction lawyers in Ontario. We look forward to working with him to resolve the many issues affecting Sub Trades, Generals and Owners when it comes to fair and equal payment conditions that respect everyone’s right to be paid for their work in a timely manner.”