Convergence plans on track

The ECA and the HVCA remain on track towards convergence by 2010. Both associations have been consulting with their members, and a formal proposition for convergence is expected to be issued in spring this year.

ECA president Bob Hall and chief executive David Pollock visited all ECA regions in the latter part of 2007 to discuss the proposal for convergence. “We were encouraged by the responses of most of the audiences that the president and I addressed,” said Pollock. “There were some regions where the idea [of convergence] was less appealing than others, but in most regions, those members consulted considered further development of the idea of convergence should take place.”

The regional conferences highlighted some issues of concern, particularly among smaller, single discipline contractors. They questioned whether the promotional and branding aspects of a joint body would mean a loss of focus for electrical-only firms.

Each member firm has been sent an information pack. Both associations will send out a survey to assess the members’ interest in taking the convergence talks further. Pollock stressed that this would not be a formal vote at this stage.

Once the survey results are in, ECA and HVCA Councils will decide whether to proceed. If the survey results are in favour, a joint board would be set up, most likely in March or April, to take the initiative forward.

“We are committed to taking this as far as members wish it,” said Pollock.