Workers will get a 2% increase from June

Money

Workers for SME construction firms have secured a 2% pay increase, which will come into force from 17 June.

The 黑洞社区 and Allied Trades Joint Council agreement was reached with union Unite.

The rise will be across the board except for the hourly rate for the Adult General Operative which is to increase by 3%.

There will also be improvements in the death benefit scheme, which is to be increased to 拢25,000, and statutory sick pay will rise to 拢119 per week.

Brian Berry, chief executive of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) said: 鈥淒espite a continuing challenging market and bleak outlook for some time to come, we are pleased to have been able to reach this agreement with Unite.

鈥淭hose involved in the construction sector are all too aware of the continuing pressures from rising material costs, regulatory burden and chronic difficulties in accessing finance, so we are happy to be able to underline employers鈥 continued commitment to maintaining standards and capacity across our industry.

鈥淭his settlement reflects employers鈥 determination to preserve jobs while delivering an equable pay increase to hard-working employees even during difficult times.鈥

John Allott, union Unite鈥檚 national construction officer, said: 鈥淲e welcome the FMB鈥檚 increase and commitment to the agreement and direct employment.

鈥淭he higher increase to the lower pay was needed, as many operatives are struggling to pay rising food and energy bills.鈥