● Why is there such an increase in the foreign labour force in the building sector?

The construction sector has been undergoing a major boom for the past few months and this is expected to go on in the coming year. However, there is a shortage of local labour force and it is intended to become even more serious in the future. As a result, 3 280 permits were delivered for the import of masons and carpenters.

● Is it also a matter of costs?

It is true that labour coming from Bangladesh or China is less expensive than local workers. However, if there had not been such a shortage, the number of foreign workers would certainly have been less important. Moreover, the other advantage of those workers is the fact that they are ?versatile. Masons can be carpenters at the same time,? said Jean-Claude Giraud of Cogir Ltd.

● Why is there a risk that the shortage becomes even more serious?

There are many developments in the real estate sector. The projects in the hotel sector, Integrated Resorts Schemes and the textile industry request a lot of labour force. If all the authorities deliver all the permits for which there has been a request, the situation will definitely worsen. This is why construction companies have decided to take the bull by the horns and employ foreigners.