Washington, D.C. (January 10, 2014) – In response to the Bureau of Labor Statistics year-end jobs report showing the construction unemployment rate skyrocketing to 11.4 percent, from 8.6 percent in November, with a drop off in nonresidential specialty trade contractor jobs, Terry O’Sullivan, General President of LIUNA – the Laborers' International Union of North America – made the following statement:

“It’s troubling to find out that the hard working men and women who have built America were hit hardest during the holiday season, especially when Congress drags its feet in extending unemployment insurance for those struggling the most. While we’re proud that 120,000 construction workers went back to work in 2013, the construction unemployment rate remains significantly worse than the national unemployment rate – with 700,000 workers still looking for a job – while wages remain flat. It’s time to seriously address how we restore that basic promise for all Americans, where if you work hard and are responsible, you and your family could prosper.

“One way to make that happen is take the chains off our economy and let workers in the construction industry, many still desperate for work, do the work that desperately needs to be done – fixing our nation’s crumbling transportation infrastructure. In the coming year, LIUNA will continue to fight for the opportunity for workers to prosper by pushing for Congress to address America’s long-term infrastructure needs by getting serious about a new Highway Bill. A full-investment Highway Bill could, for every $1 invested, save taxpayers $14 more down the road – all while creating good jobs and rebuilding our economy for future generations.”

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The half-million members of LIUNA – the Laborers’ International Union of North America – are on the forefront of the construction industry, a powerhouse of workers who are proud to build America. For the latest news, check out our media kit here.