Builders resume street protests

The demonstration in Lausanne was the latest in a series of regional protests against plans by the employers in the building sector. Keystone

Construction workers have continued their protests against worsening labour conditions in Switzerland.

An estimated 4,000 people took to the streets of Lausanne on Monday in the latest stage of a series of short regional strikes underway since mid-October.

The trade unions have accused the employers in the building sector of undermining workers’ rights, notably increasing the retirement age, demanding longer working hours and scrapping minimum wages.

The protests are due to continue on Tuesday, according to the UniaExternal link and Syna trade unions. A demonstration is also planned at the headquarters of the Swiss Builders AssociationExternal link representing employers, in Zurich on Tuesday.

The association has accused the unions of trying to block its compromise plan. The next round of negotiations is scheduled for Friday.

The unions say about 10,000 people have taken part in street protests and strike actions in Geneva, Bern, Bellinzona and in other regions notably in the French-speaking part of the country over the past three weeks.

A massive demonstration also took place in Zurich in June.