Builders planning job cuts

Thirty-one out of 40 major construction companies surveyed by the Chamber for-Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises - GRTU say they plan to reduce their full-time workforce in response to dwindling business.

With an increasing gloomy economic situation, 85 per cent of those questioned said they do not feel comfortable with their present level of orders.

A large number, 70 per cent, said they would reduce sub-contractors and 60 per cent fear they would have to dismiss some of their part-time employees.

A significant number of those questioned said they intended replacing local workers with immigrant workers and employ more immigrants. Others said they would use more part-timers.

A quarter of those interviewed said their employment strategy would remain unchanged and five per cent said they would increase the number of full-time employees.

The largest single problem identified by respondents was the slowing down of the economy with 85 per cent highlighting this.

Other problems identified were the slowing flow of orders, delays by Mepa in approving projects, too much bureaucracy, a falling demand for housing, delayed payments, an increase in costs and the negative impact of certain government decisions.