Construction employers and trade unions are set to hold talks today in an effort to resolve their differences and restore normalcy to a sector crucial to the economy.
The Labour Minister has demonstrated commitment to keeping negotiations alive, sending a letter yesterday urging both sides to confirm their willingness to contribute positively towards resolving the dispute.
The minister emphasised that any solution would require compromise, noting that neither side should expect to achieve 100% of their demands.
According to sources, the minister’s letter requested clear confirmation from both parties about their readiness to show flexibility in reaching a compromise solution. The minister will only re-engage in negotiations if both sides indicate willingness to make mutual concessions.
Meanwhile, a meeting held yesterday at the Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEB), involving the Federation of Building Contractors Associations (OSEOK) and the Ready-Mixed Concrete Manufacturers Association, highlighted that the construction sector has reached a critical point.
Both private and public sector projects have been suspended, construction sites face closure, and companies are experiencing liquidity issues, with workers at risk of unemployment.
Trade unions have expressed dissatisfaction with the Labour Minister’s handling of the situation, arguing that employers have violated existing agreements.
The unions are calling for more decisive intervention from the minister to restart negotiations, while maintaining that employers must shift from their current positions.
The unions emphasise that the situation has become increasingly difficult and are calling on both employers and the Labour Minister to take responsibility for finding a resolution.
