Monday, June 15, 2026

Rebuilding the Aquarium

As cracks appear in the comfortable world Canadians take for granted, CLAC members and contractors will play a key role in what comes next

Guide Magazine

By Henk de Zoete, President, National Board

I’ve maintained an aquarium for about 60 years, and on sweltering summer days, I sometimes wish I could step into its cool, carefully balanced waters, protected, fed, and cared for without a worry. Of course, that world depends entirely on a caring owner, someone who maintains the balance and feeds and protects the inhabitants.

At times, I wonder if Canada has been living like that aquarium. Since the end of the Second World War, we’ve enjoyed a level of comfort and stability that we’ve often taken for granted. We’ve operated as part of a larger global economic system, one where we contributed but also relied on others for stability and protection.

But more recently, there’s a growing sense the conditions we’ve relied on are shifting, and our way of life may not be as secure as we once thought. The structures that held things together appear strained, even, in some cases, ruptured.

Our way of life is being tested in real and tangible ways, and patchwork solutions aren’t enough. The situation calls for something more deliberate: the willingness to rebuild. That kind of course correction takes courage, resilience, and a clear-eyed confidence in what we have. Canada is rich in people, resources, and opportunity. CLAC, together with its members and signatory contractors, is well positioned to help shape what comes next.

Throughout its 74-year history, CLAC has operated in environments that were often difficult, even hostile. Support from governments and labour boards was far from guaranteed, and the traditional labour movement often opposed us—and still does.

But time and again, our approach to labour relations, grounded in respect, dignity, and fairness, proved its value. We’ve taken responsibility to build and nurture strong workplaces and communities for members, adjusting how our vision aligns with changing needs and circumstances.

That responsibility continues today. CLAC members and representatives bring practical expertise across the economy. We engage often with government and business leaders, offering concrete ideas to improve healthcare delivery, address skilled labour shortages, and strengthen key industries.

In infrastructure and resource development, our wall-to-wall construction model has proven highly effective. Many large, multibillion-dollar projects continue to be awarded to CLAC-signatory contractors. Together, they are responsibly developing Canada’s abundant oil, natural gas, potash, and critical mineral resources.

Recently, I went with one of my granddaughters to help her restart her aquarium. We talked about what it takes: light, heat, filtration, food, and consistent care. She listened closely, eager to get started.

It reminded me that what matters most isn’t the glass or the equipment. It’s the commitment to care for what’s inside. Canada is entering a season where that commitment will be tested, and rebuilding our country won’t happen by chance. It will take people willing to step forward with skill, integrity, and purpose. CLAC and its members are ready to play that role. In an increasingly uncertain world, we can help rebuild an aquarium where all can flourish.

Rebuilding the Aquarium

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