Statement on the Passing of Mark H. Ayers, President of the Building and Construction Trades Department

Perhaps no two countries have a stronger — and more special — partnership than do the United States and Canada. It is the world’s largest trading relationship, and Canada plays a tremendous role in our nation’s economic and energy security. Canada is already our largest supplier of imported oil.

Thank you.

Brothers and Sisters…Ladies and Gentlemen.

It is my great privilege to welcome you to the 68th convention
of the Building and Construction Trades Department.

A new decade is upon us, and it is one that begins on a very somber and serious note.  Millions of unionized skilled craft professionals throughout North America find themselves struggling to provide for their families.  Just two short years ago, the situation was altogether different.  Our unions in both Canada and the United States were filled with optimism and hope. 

In the two years since I assumed the presidency of the Building and Construction Trades Department, I have set as a top priority the institution of a new culture for the union construction industry – one that is premised upon the ideal of pride, performance and professionalism, coupled with stringent individual and organizational accountability.