A Tankweld (Construction) Company Ltd (TCC’s) backhoe operator doing work on a shore protection project recently done for Sandals International, Freeport Montego Bay . (Photo: Contributed)

A Tankweld (Construction) Company Ltd (TCC) says it expects that two public projects that it has secured contracts for will create an close to 200 jobs in the construction sector, which is currently experience fall out.

According to the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) the construction and installation sector shed 15,200 workers between January and March 2010.

TCC will be responsible for contructing the Harbour View Weight Scale Station, which is estimated to generate between 120-130 jobs, and building a cutting-edge arrival forecourt, shopping arcade and bus terminal at the Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA).

“The endeavour will require specialised work in the fields of: communication, electrical/mechanical works, security, fire and safety systems, and will result in the employment of approximately 70 persons,” said the construction firm in a statement to the Business Observer.

“The economic climate we are currently operating in has created unprecedented challenges for companies in every industry across the island,” said TCC CEO, Jerome Gayle. “Within the building sector, the downturn has caused a reduction in the number of tenders and has decreased the amount of work available.”

In spite of the difficulties and dismal fiscal forecasts, TCC says it is commited to retaining its full time, permanent employees and providing opportunities for seasonal workers when the need arises. The company says it has a long tradition of employing members of local communities where projects are based and utilising unskilled labourers who showcase a strong desire to work and willingness to learn.

Established in 1972 by Val Johnson, TCC focuses on building, road, marine and civil engineering projects. To date TCC has, through the tendering process successfully completed some 145 projects mainly secured through government contracts. TCC is not a member of the Tank-Weld Group.