The Federation of Trade Unions of Construction and Building Materials Workers SINDICONS held its VIII Congress last 12 September, which was attended by 80 delegates, comprised of shop stewards and workplace activists, including social partners, and guests representing sister unions from Sweden, Denmark, Romania, and the Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI).

Viktor Talmachi, President of the SINDICONS Federation, said that the federation celebrates the 120th anniversary of its activities in a turbulent time. Serious concern is raised on decreasing union membership and the closure of many  enterprises in the sector, and the significant increase in the number of work-related accidents in Moldova, with a 63 percent increase in 2024 compared to the year before. He said that this confirms the need for increased monitoring and OHS training at workplaces. He also drew attention to the problem of interference of state bodies in the activities of trade unions. Talmachi also pointed to unresolved labor conflicts, noting that disputes are often settled informally as mediation mechanisms barely function, labor tribunals are absent, and efforts to establish them in enterprises have so far failed, leaving workers at a disadvantage.

Talmachi said that on October 31, 2023, the social partners of the construction industry signed a collective agreement for 2023–2027, setting the minimum tariff rate for the first qualification category at 6,500 lei (EUR 340), currently the highest in the production sector, though SINDICONS insists it should be raised to 8,450 lei (EUR 445). Talmachi also welcomed the 3,000 lei (EUR 158) monthly allowance for first-time young workers but stressed the importance of also ensuring access to social housing and stronger vocational education.

The SINDICONS Congress reelected Talmachi as president and the members of the Federation's Executive Committee, who will be guided by the federation’s approved “Main Directions” for 2025–2030. “We are not losing our courage, on the contrary, we are constantly looking for solutions and working to strengthen our organisations, even if the results are still modest. We are glad that we managed to hold on,” Talmachi said.