Many of you will now be aware that the ECA and HVCA consultation on convergence is gathering momentum, most recently with our member survey.

Following the HVCA Council meeting, full support was given to the further development of a converged model for the future. The ECA survey results showed a healthy response, but ECA members raised concerns for the preservation of the electrical interests and identity of the ECA. It is now for the ECA Council to progress the process.

ECA members’ views have been listened to, and we will continue to ensure their close involvement at every stage of this important consultation.

I believe there are persuasive arguments for convergence. Clients have been looking for contractors to provide joined-up m&e solutions, and this demand will only increase as a result of sustainability and other market forces.

Legal and accreditation requirements will further the need to position members on a common building services basis. Lobbying on issues such as training and payment will carry more weight and be more effective if we speak with one voice.

But we are clear that any course of action will only be pursued if the interests of single-discipline mechanical and electrical companies, who still make up the bulk of our memberships, as well as those who are in both the mechanical and electrical market, can be preserved and enhanced.

We will continue to look carefully into our options to reach a solution that is supported by the vast majority of the memberships of both associations.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor