Breaking News: Construction Workers Demand Better Working Conditions as Negotiations Intensify
In a significant development, construction workers across the country are pushing for improved working conditions as the National Convention of the Main Construction Sector (CN) undergoes renegotiation. The workers, numbering nearly 80,000, have presented a list of demands that include shorter working days, paid breaks, the end of unpaid travel times, and a substantial increase in purchasing power. However, the Social and Economic Council (SSE) is proposing the opposite, advocating for longer working days with reduced compensation.
Workers’ Key Demands
The demands from the workers, as highlighted by a survey of over 10,000 construction workers, include:
- Shorter working days: Eight hours of work is considered sufficient.
- Paid breaks: Construction workers are calling for remunerated breaks, a standard in other professions.
- The end of unpaid travel time: Workers argue that travel time ordered by the company should be counted as working time and compensated from the first minute.
- Salary increase and future compensation: Workers deserve a guarantee of their purchasing power.
SSE’s Counterproposal
The SSE, however, suggests that the staff crisis should be addressed by demanding more from workers for less. Their proposals include:
- Weeks of work up to 50 hours without overtime pay, based on the company’s short-term needs.
- A six-day workweek with Saturday as a normal workday, compensated at 25% less than current rates.
- Allowance for 250 overtime hours with less compensation, and up to 150 negative hours to be borne by the worker.
- Elimination of minimum wages and wage adjustments for skilled workers and those with experience.
- No salary increase for the sector, focusing only on minimum wages which can also be reduced.
- Only 80% of the salary for sick workers.
Workers Ready to Fight for Their Rights
The workers’ demands are seen as a critical response to the SSE’s proposals, which they consider catastrophic for a sector already under strain. Construction workers are prepared to fight for more favorable working hours and a more attractive construction industry. If the SSE does not negotiate favorable working conditions, the sector faces a significant social conflict.
Evergreen Context
The construction industry has historically faced challenges with worker welfare. Improvements in working conditions have been a long-standing demand, especially as the industry becomes more competitive and demanding. Experts suggest that addressing these concerns could not only improve worker satisfaction but also enhance productivity and retention rates. Understanding the historical context and future implications of these negotiations is crucial for stakeholders and the broader public.
Stay tuned to archyde.com for more updates on this developing story. Your voice matters in shaping a fair and balanced construction industry.
