CIOB reacts to CITB Migration Report

The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has today reacted to CITB’s newly published Migration Report, highlighting the significant barriers the construction industry faces in recruiting workers from abroad. 

David Barnes, Policy and Public Affairs Manager at CIOB, said: “Migration is a vital factor in plugging the significant skills gap across the construction industry. 

“CIOB welcomes this new report by CITB which further highlights the clear need to increase the domestic pool of construction workers. 

“Research clearly shows many construction companies feel migrant workers are critical to their business, but the new points-based system is convoluted and expensive – potentially deterring companies from looking overseas when recruiting. 

“CIOB has also worked closely with the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) following the recent Migration Advisory Committee’s review of the Shortage Occupation List.  

“Together, we identified the most difficult areas to recruit within alongside the need for far more flexibility to help achieve key governmental targets in areas such as housebuilding. 

“We urge the Government to consider drastic improvements to its engagement with construction companies regarding the points-based system and to review both its cost and navigation.”