Argentina faces construction and public building safety crisis as unions criticize government

Ignacio Cassiani, secretary general of the Asociación Judicial Bonaerense (AJB), warned that the central courthouse in Mercedes is unsafe after a ceiling panel fell, exposing years of neglect, inadequate maintenance and missing safety equipment. He said the building’s condition would not meet standards even for a private commercial venue and highlighted similar risks in other judicial facilities.

Victor Grosi, secretary general of the construction union SITRAIC, denounced the national government's suspension of public works, saying it has caused 130,000 layoffs and left 16,000 housing projects, schools and health‑care works in Buenos Aires province stalled. He noted that 60% of construction workers are in precarious employment and that transport costs now consume a quarter of a worker’s salary. Both leaders are calling for urgent investment and policy changes to restore safety and jobs in the sector.