A spokesperson from the LCGB explained that the collective labour agreement for the construction industry expired in 2016 and, since then, “[…]employers have been unwilling to negotiate in a coherent way.” There have been 5 meetings to date where, apparently, “Employers have responded negatively to unions’ demands.” The LCGB believes that, “Employers do not respect employees of the construction industry.”

As for the OGBL, it also claims, “[…] employers refuse to negotiate serious increases in real wages for the 18,000 or so employees in the sector. Increases that are more than justified in light of the economic situation in the sector […] and working conditions continue to deteriorate.”

Along with improved working conditions, the unions are demanding a 4.5% increase in real salaries.

Practical information:

The OGB-L is organising a demonstration in Luxembourg City, where participants will meet between 17:00-18:00 on Boulevard de la Pétrusse and walk together to Place de Clairefontaine. Shuttle buses will run every 15 minutes between 16:45 and 17:45 from the P+Rs at Bouillion and Howald, returning at 19:30.

The LCGB demonstration will take place in Esch-sur-Alzette from 18:00 at Place Hotel de Ville. Participants can take a shuttle from the car park in front of the ArcelorMittal site at Esch/Lallange. Buses will run every 10 minutes from 17:00.