The most basic principle reflected in these provisions is to carry through the implications of the multiple holdback scheme into the distribution phase and, in particular, to make sure the limited recovery principle embodied in section 34 is fully realized. A second principle reflected in these provisions is that for reasons of public policy, certain priorities should be reflected in the distribution scheme. In particular, priority is given to the costs incurred in enforcing lien claims and workers' wages , to the extent of six weeks. This allocation is made according to a formula set out in the Act. It provides, subject to the priority given with respect to costs and six weeks of workers' wages, for a pro rata distribution among the members of the contractor group.
Any funds remaining after distribution to the contractor group are payable to the owner.
The amount of the proceeds of the sale of the improvement allocated to the subcontractor group are combined with any money previously paid into court under section 23 and these funds are distributed according to the terms of section 37 . Again, costs and six weeks of workers' wages have a first claim on those funds. The balance remaining is available for distribution toward the satisfaction of the other lien claims. This distribution requires that the funds be pro rated twice. The first step is to pro rate the available funds among the various classes of lien claimants.