The Isle of Man Employers’ Federation is encouraging increased awareness of the Manx Accredited Construction Contractors Scheme (MACCS) to both local contractors and consumers.
The main aims of the Scheme are to encourage good practices by its members. It requires participating construction contractors to meet a variety of membership and performance standards such as evidence of sound workmanship and possession of the appropriate insurances.
This gives consumers who use MACCS members the confidence that they are dealing with reputable people who are qualified to provide the services they offer. The list of MACCS contractors is updated regularly and is available to view on the Employers’ Federation website.
In recognition of the high standards required to attain membership, the Isle of Man Government has made inclusion in the Scheme mandatory for construction contractors wishing to be considered for Government construction-related projects.
President of the Isle of Man Employers’ Federation, Les Nicol commented:
‘We are delighted that the Scheme has been supported so well by local contractors in the short time since its establishment. The Federation has always been concerned about the quality of service provided by some contractors and this was one of the prime movers behind the establishment of the Scheme. I hope that clients and contractors will see the immediate benefits of the Scheme, and it will gives consumers the confidence that they are dealing with reputable people who are qualified to provide the services they offer.’
The political Member with responsibility for Construction is the Department of Economic Development’s Laurence Skelly MHK. He commented: ‘The Department is working very closely with the sector on a range of issues and MACCS in particular is a scheme which we are keen to help the Employers’ Federation promote. Any initiative that provides benefits to both local contractors and consumers is to be encouraged and since its inception MACCS has grown in stature through instilling confidence in consumers that they are using a reputable local firm. ’
For local consumers the advantages of using a MACCS contractor are the security of knowing that a particular contractor meets the required standards and continuing compliance is monitored. There is also a formal complaints and disciplinary procedure intended to maintain the high standards required of the Scheme, plus the Employers’ Federation is available to offer advice in should a case of uncertainty or dispute arise.
The MACCS currently has over 250 members who encompass all aspects of the construction industry. They range from the largest contractors on the Island, to many medium and small contractors who are more typically involved in refurbishments, extensions and improvements to domestic properties.
Photo caption - Isle of Man Employers’ Federation President Les NicolAre
