HVCA votes in favour of merger with ECA

Eight out of 10 members of the Heating and Ventilating Contractors Association (HVCA) have voted in favour of a merger with the Electrical Contractors Association (ECA) to form a single body representing the mechanical and electrical services industry.

Following the membership survey, the HVCA council has pledged its support for the formation of a convergence board to progress the merger plan.

Results of a parallel consultation exercise will be reported to the ECA council on 23 April.

Separate talks are continuing between the respective industrial relations departments on the establishment of a unified agreement on pay and conditions in the two sectors.

A spokesman said these discussions "have an independent life".

They were expected to reach an earlier conclusion, with proposals being put to the union side this summer.