What's Happening?
The Work Rights Centre, an employment rights charity, has called for a change in visa rules to protect construction workers from exploitation. The charity recommends switching from employer-based to sector-based visa sponsorship, allowing workers to move freely between jobs while maintaining visa compliance. This change aims to reduce the risk of abuse and better reflect the industry's fragmented supply chains.
Why It's Important?
Current visa rules tying workers to specific employers increase the risk of exploitation, as seen in the social care sector. A sector-based visa system could provide workers with more flexibility and reduce labor market abuse. This approach aligns with the construction industry's subcontract-heavy model and could improve working conditions for migrant workers. The recommendation highlights the need for immigration policies that protect workers' rights while supporting economic growth.
What's Next?
The government may consider piloting sector-based visa sponsorship to address the issues raised by the charity. Trade unions and industry stakeholders could advocate for policy changes that support worker mobility and protect against exploitation. The construction industry may see increased collaboration between employers and workers to ensure compliance with new visa rules.
