We’ve taken the following action to highlight the difficulties this is causing for local builders:
- We have used our relationships in Government to raise the issue. This includes a briefing for the UK Housing Minister; correspondence with the Construction Minister; and meetings with officials at the Ministry of Housing and Homes England.
- We’re regularly attending the Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC) Product Availability Group, with FMB members sharing your feedback on shortages. For updates on the crisis from throughout the sector, see the latest Product Availability Statement from this group?here.?
- Our State of Trade Survey for?Q2 2021?revealed that 98% of builders were facing material price rises and expected these to continue through 2021; we’ve been using this data to raise the profile of the issue both in the media, for example with FMB member Mark Gribben of Setanta Construction and our FMB Northern Ireland Director recently?appearing on BBC Radio Foyle?to highlight this issue and its impact on consumers?(Timestamp - 1:39:30).
- We recently held a?webinar?on the materials shortages, providing members practical tips and advice to navigate the ongoing crisis.
- In Northern Ireland, the FMB are due to meet with the Minister of Finance in early November to brief them on the impacts.
Visit our campaigns page to learn how we're campaigning on behalf of small and medium-size construction companies.
