The construction industry’s unprecedented skills shortage will worsen without a better deal, says GMB Union 

Yesterday, construction workers were protesting a ‘derisory’ pay offer made by the Construction Industry Joint Council (CIJC).

Workers gathered outside a CIJC meeting in Central London in anger at an offer which is just over a third of today’s rampant 11 per cent inflation figure.

The CIJC is the largest agreement in the construction sector and governs the pay and conditions of around 500,000 workers (principally those in civil engineering and the biblical trades).

A pay claim was submitted by the joint trade unions in February, calling for a 10 per cent increase as well as radical improvements to sick pay and other benefits to bring them in line with other construction agreements.

The CIJC has so far failed to make an offer that comes anywhere near GMB members’ pay aspirations.

Charlotte Childs, GMB National Officer said:“The construction industry is facing an unprecedented skills shortage. 

“Without meaningful improvements to the CIJC agreement, which sets out the minimum rates for all grades covered by the agreement, the shortage will likely worsen.  

“The CIJC needs to show leadership in setting the appropriate rates for this highly skilled and highly motivated workforce – not this derisory offer. 

“Our members are here today, ahead of pay negotiations to demonstrate the strength of feeling amongst the workforce.”