A NEW committee member has been announced for Construction Alliance Northeast (CAN).

Caroline Meehan from the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has joined CAN, which represents 500 regional SMEs in construction and civil engineering.

She previously worked in Australia where she founded a not for profit and award-winning charity, Heartfelt Homes. Her recent career move brought her back to her native UK where she joined the FMB as northern regional director.

CAN and FMB have worked closely together in the past to protect the interests of regional SMEs in construction and civil engineering.

“I have a huge amount of admiration for our members and tradesmen,” said Caroline. “They provide our built environment and are essential to the development of our country. I am passionate about supporting them in whichever way FMB and CAN are able to.

“I think that the lack of regulation throughout the industry is a real problem. I strongly believe that licensing could help improve the image of the industry, keep our members safer and ensure they are paid fairly and on-time.

“I also think that we need to work together to provide the correct training and information to the industry, so trades people know where to go to access the help and support they need.”