MPA - Major Projects Agreement
On January 21 2003 a dual conference in London of shop
stewards representing workers in the M&E contracting sector
from the AEEU and MSF sections of Amicus unanimously approved the
MPA, the creation of this agreement is a major breakthrough for the
construction industry and society as a whole.
The MPA is a new 21st Century performance and
employment framework for mechanical, electrical and plumbing
disciplines for the largest building services engineering projects.
The MPA has a broad scope, including major PFI projects, airport
infrastructure, major rail development and major public and
commercial construction projects. Sites are assessed for in-scope
suitability by a joint M&E forum.
The MPA has been agreed between Amicus and
the APHC, ECA, HVCA and SELECT employer associations, it represents
a major innovative step forward, providing a radical and
progressive performance and industrial relations model. Furthermore
it encompasses the working rules, structures and grading schemes of
the JIB, SJIB, JIB (PMES) and HVACR national collective agreements,
protecting our members core skills and identities.
The building services engineering sector has
to improve its performance and the MPA is the best chance for many
years of really changing the culture, recognising the contribution
of our members and taking our industry forward within an ethos of
Respect for People.
Heathrow Terminal 5 is the first project to
adopt the MPA.
The agreement provides the opportunity
to build Britain's infrastructure in a stable, fair and
professional environment. The agreement encapsulates modern working
practices which will enhance the total construction process,
including:
- Enhanced employment reward
- Respect for people
- Designated Amicus representatives on site
- Innovations in productivity
- Forward planning and logistics
- Welfare
- Health & Safety
- Industrial relations stability
- Integrated team working
- Apprenticeships and training
The effective and beneficial application of
the agreement depends on effective union organisation in the
localities. We must be up to the task and challenge ahead.
For the latest news and to download a copy of
the agreement and local SPA agreements, including details of
enhanced employment reward and second tier payments go the MPA
website at
www.mpaforum.org.uk
