June 8, 2015
Province Introduces Legislation That Would Establish a Registered Designation for the Planning Profession
New legislation tabled today would protect the public interest by increasing transparency and accountability in the planning profession, Municipal Government Minister Drew Caldwell announced today.
“Bill 31 would ensure that qualified professionals practicing planning are identifiable by the designation RPP – Registered Professional Planner,” said Minister Caldwell. “This means that when citizens or organizations engage the services of planners bearing the RPP designation, they would be assured the planner is subject to a code of professional conduct and ethics, maintains professional accreditation, and is subject to investigation and disciplinary proceedings for failure to adhere to professional standards and qualifications.”
“The Manitoba Professional Planners Institute (MPPI) is pleased the province is proceeding with Bill 31 to recognize professional planners,” said MPPI president David Jopling. “This legislation would enhance the public’s confidence in professional planning services, help improve the quality of our communities, retain planning professionals and students, and create a level playing field for business and municipalities.”
The Association of Manitoba Municipalities, City of Winnipeg, Partnership of the Manitoba Capital Region, Brandon and Area Planning District, Red River Planning District and the Manitoba Association of Landscape Architects are among other groups that have voiced support of this legislation, the minister said.
“Bearing a recognized professional accreditation would enhance career prospects for those in this profession, and serve as proof of their skills and knowledge as planners,” said Minister Caldwell. “Establishing a consistent planning designation of RPP across Canada would also enable Manitoba planners and planning firms to practice and compete for projects in other provinces that recognize RPP.”
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