Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1518324
ASSOCJAZZJONI Bennejja u Kuntratturi (ABK) is a new- ly formed association which seeks to provide a common voice and point of reference for licensed masons, contrac- tors and other industry-related personnel around Malta and Gozo. After centuries of dedicat- ed work in building and con- struction which has shaped the built landscape we see and experience around us, licensed masons have finally come to- gether to form an association that aims to consolidate and improve the profession. With the recent drafting of trans- formative laws aimed at rede- fining the nature and skill set of licensed masons, the need for an organised association has become all the more im- portant to navigate such trans- formation. Licensed masons have been a pillar of the construction in- dustry, entrusted by the gov- ernment with licences that encompass a broad spectrum of building tasks - from site investigations, demolition, ex- cavation and construction, all the way through to ensuring natural ventilation within the building, rainwater collection, drainage laying and tiling. Our industry has witnessed substantial transformation, evolving from a time when two-story limestone mason- ry structures were the norm, to today's current landscape which is dominated by more complex, multi-storey con- crete and steel structures be- ing built in already inhabited neighbourhoods. This evolu- tion has not only reshaped the physical environment but also necessitated a re-evaluation of the role, skill set and edu- cational journey for licensed masons. With an ever-changing con- struction industry which sees new building techniques, ma- terials, legislation and technol- ogy evolving regularly, there is need for the industry to also evolve. Traditionally rooted in the apprentice-master model, ed- ucation for licensed masons has now diversified. However, with industry complexity out- pacing educational changes, a disparity has emerged whereby this gap prompts us to ques- tion the relevance of current educational paradigms in the modern construction context. The bennej or masons licence is one of the oldest certifica- tions of trade, with a history stretching back over a century. One of the main aims of the ABK is to ensure that such li- cence is not diminished or re- gressed in any way and to pre- serve the body of knowledge and skill that comes with such a licence. To navigate these changes, the ABK has come up with sev- eral proposals to date which have been presented to various authorities outlining how cur- rent systems can be brought forward. One such topic of dis- cussion continuously being ex- plored and discussed with var- ious industry stakeholders is the concept of categorisation and tiered licensing structures which could redefine indus- try dynamics through better transparency and skill-based expertise. The skills required to con- struct reinforced concrete frame structures are different to those which are required for load-bearing masonry or steel structures - and licensing should reflect this. As the path to the future is considered, the industry is inevitably confronted with concerns surrounding liabil- ity, insurance, and the evolv- ing regulatory landscape. The prospect of relocating licences from the police codes to the BCA Act and the introduction of specific contractor licences raises questions about poten- tial consequences. Additional- ly, the necessity for a skilled, balanced, and practical work- force capable of supervising the myriad building sites can- not be understated. Building upon the spirit and tradition of the bennej liċen- zjat - the individual who was tasked with encompassing the full spectrum of works on site - the association aims at rep- resenting all licensees carrying out works and therefore, as a result of the new law, the as- sociation has formed itself as a grouping for masons and con- tractors alike. The Assocjazzoni Bennejja u Kuntratturi seeks to embark on a journey that honours history while embracing the transfor- mational potential of the fu- ture. The ongoing evolution of construction calls for adapt- able licensing and educational frameworks. By fostering col- laboration between licensed masons, contractors and periti, addressing concerns, and em- bracing novel educational par- adigms, our aim is to establish an industry that thrives in the face of change. The committee members, who bring experience from dif- ferent corners of the industry, formed the ABK in November of 2023. It had over 240 mem- bers to date. The aim of the ABK is to gather as many prac- titioners as possible so as to enrich the association's cause, strengthen its voice and rep- resent as much of the industry as possible in order to promote its betterment. All those interested in be- coming a member are invited to join by contacting the asso- ciation on bennejjaukuntrat- turi@gmail.com. Prospective members will also be able to enrol at the official launch of the association, which is be- ing planned for the coming months. maltatoday | SUNDAY • 31 MARCH 2024 10 OPINION Stone masons and contractors unite Michael Cutajar Michael Cutajar is president of Assoccjazzjoni Bennejja u Kuntratturi With an ever-changing construction industry which sees new building techniques, materials, legislation and technology evolving regularly, there is need for the industry to also evolve