The construction industry saw 467 cases of labour disputes and claims in the first half of 2009, down 25% on the same period last year. Ninety-three summonses over wage offences were issued, up 39%.

Secretary for Labour & Welfare Matthew Cheung said today the unemployment rate in the construction industry has dropped and work safety improved. The unemployment rate in the sector fell from 12.7% (February-April) to 11.8% (April-June). The decoration and maintenance sector also recorded a decline from 21.6% to 16.6%.

"The Government will be vigilant in reducing work accidents through legislation, enforcement, publicity and promotion, education [and] training," Mr Cheung said, adding the employment situation in the construction industry is expected to improve as more projects launch.

Comparing 1999 and 2008, the accident rate in the industry decreased 69.1%. However, minor-works accidents grew from 37.9% (2004) to 51.3% (2008).