FIEC, EFBWW and EU experts summoned at the EESC to discuss potential solutions for the main challenges faced by the construction industry namely the housing crisis, the labour shortages and the forthcoming revision of the Public Procurement Directives and subcontracting.
On 24th June, amidst the spreading housing crisis, and with the aim to explore ways to address the main challenges impacting the construction industry, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) - in cooperation with the European Construction Industry Federation (FIEC) and the European Federation of Building and Woodworkers (EFBWW) - hosted the conference “Building Tomorrow: Addressing Europe's Construction Sector Challenges - Social Partners & Civil Society's Inputs”.
Three lines of debate to identify challenges and solutions
Organised around three panel discussions, the debate hosted FIEC and EFBWW representatives to share the views of the employers on the following key issues:
- Affordable housing
- Labour shortages
- Revision of Public Procurement Directives and abusive subcontracting
Moderated by Laurenţiu Plosceanu, EESC Vice-President and FIEC Vice-President for Communication & Enlargement, and opened by EESC President, Oliver Röpke, the roundtable included interventions by the European Commission, the European Labour Authority (ELA) and the European Parliament. All speakers agreed that a coordinated EU-wide approach to affordable, sustainable and decent housing is necessary, as well as a strategic focus on housing, productivity and appropriate financing instruments in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). Abusive subcontracting and its negative impact on fair competition and workers’ rights were also mentioned several times during the event as one of the major challenges of the construction industry. Addressing these challenges, and under multiple perspectives, requires shared commitment and action from the EU institutions, national governments, local stakeholders, and a strong social dialogue between social partners at both national and European level.
Full press release here