Construction employers’ association Oseok has condemned illegal practices by any contractor or business operating in Cyprus’ construction sector, while warning that the industry continues to face a severe shortage of workers that is placing growing pressure on companies and projects.

The Cyprus association of building contractors (Oseok) said it unequivocally condemns any unlawful action by contractors or businesses in the sector, stressing its role as the institutional and collective representative of the construction industry.

The association said that, particularly on issues relating to the terms and conditions of employment for workers in the construction industry, it has worked closely with trade unions and the Labour Ministry to establish a regulated framework that all employers are obliged to follow.

“Those who violate this framework create conditions of unfair competition against our members and businesses that operate responsibly, lawfully and consistently fulfil their obligations,” the association said.

Oseok added that the construction sector’s serious shortage of suitably qualified workers cannot be overlooked.

It explained that many construction companies are struggling, and in some cases are unable, to meet their contractual obligations because of genuine labour shortages across the market.

“This serious issue requires permanent and meaningful solutions from the state,” the association said.

It welcomed what it described as significant improvements and faster procedures introduced by the competent ministry, while warning that labour needs in the construction sector are increasing at a much faster pace.

“This genuine problem can under no circumstances serve as an excuse for violating the law or for practices that undermine workers, fair competition and the credibility of the sector,” the association added.

The association also reaffirmed its commitment to continuing cooperation with the government, trade unions and all other stakeholders to safeguard legality, worker protection and the sustainable operation of the construction industry.

The concerns raised by Oseok come as the Cyprus Scientific and Technical Chamber (Etek) has also called for urgent action to tackle persistent labour shortages affecting the construction sector.

During a meeting with Labour Minister Marinos Moussiouttas, Etek warned that shortages of workers are delaying projects, increasing construction costs and making it more difficult to deliver affordable housing.

According to the chamber, the meeting also covered workplace health and safety, practical training for newly qualified engineers and the licensing process for tower cranes.

Etek said the industry continues to experience acute shortages of workers, skilled tradespeople, foremen and site supervisors, with particularly severe gaps among steel fixers and formwork carpenters.

The chamber warned that these shortages are disrupting the timely completion of construction projects, driving up costs and affecting wider priorities such as the energy upgrading of buildings, affordable housing and the country’s economic development.

It urged the government to accelerate measures currently under consideration to address staffing shortages across the industry.

Among the proposals discussed was the speeding up and digitalisation of applications for the employment of workers from third countries, a move Etek said would help meet labour demand more efficiently.

The chamber also called for a comprehensive assessment of labour market needs and measures to improve the image of technical professions through recognised professional qualification standards.

On health and safety, Etek reiterated that construction site safety should be regarded as a core element of quality and professionalism, rather than simply a matter of regulatory compliance.

The chamber also outlined its own training and awareness initiatives for professionals while stressing the need for closer cooperation with the Labour Ministry and the Department of Labour Inspection, with a stronger emphasis on prevention.

In addition, the meeting examined the future of the European Social Fund-funded practical training programme for newly qualified graduates in architecture, civil engineering and electrical engineering.

Etek said the programme has made an important contribution to helping young engineers enter the labour market and called for its timely renewal during the next funding period.

The chamber also raised concerns over the existing requirement to obtain a building permit for tower cranes, describing the current licensing process as dysfunctional.

It proposed replacing the current system with a more practical licensing framework to be developed jointly with the Interior Ministry and Oseok.