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Date Published: 25/10/2021
ARCHIVED - Construction worker shortage in Murcia could lead to skyrocketing prices
Price hikes in the Region of Murcia could see public infrastructure being neglected
The rapidly falling number of people choosing to work in the construction industry in the Region of Murcia is reaching crisis point, as exiting labourers reach retirement age and the younger generation fails to step up to replace them. The job has been losing its attractiveness over recent years and now, there are more workers over the age of 60 in Murcia (10%) than under 30 (8%).
According to the secretary general of the Regional Federation of Construction Entrepreneurs of Murcia (Frecom), Alejandro Zamora, the supply shortage is so serious that the Region runs the risk of not being able to complete projects related to European funding.
"We will not be able to meet the demand for activity and the growth of the entire Region will suffer", he explained.
Long-term, the lack of workers could lead to price increases if the supply is unable to meet the demand, and Frecom has already warned that the cost of raw materials has increased by 50% in the last year alone.
A price hike on construction would have far-reaching consequences; not only would private home and business renovations cost more, but the government would have less money available to make improvements to roads, parks or schools.
Despite the general decline in the sector in recent years, the number of people employed in construction has actually grown by 2,000 workers between January and September. In fact, Murcia has increased its workforce by 4.5% this year, exceeding the national average of 3.7%.
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