The trade union writes that it has been warning for “years” that this shortage would come “because these professions are not appealing.” According to the OGBL, the reason for this is that employers refuse to negotiate collective labour agreements and improvements, particularly regarding salaries.
The failure of some employers’ federations to engage in such negotiations with trade unions, as well as “their relentless fight against any improvements,” has resulted in “an increasing number of employees simply turning their backs on these industries,” the trade union regrets.
The OGBL points out that as more young people become aware of the working conditions and salary in various sectors, they are opting for other professions, as “evidenced by the modest number of apprentices graduating from the school system each year compared to the need in these sectors.”
The OGBL feels that in order to improve the image of the craft industry, “it is critical to make these sectors more appealing through solid collective agreements that ensure attractive salaries and dignified working conditions.”
