Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

The workshop where the problems of the industry were discussed by the Construction Contractors' Confederation (İMKON) at TOBB Twin Towers was attended by TOBB President M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu and Minister of Environment and Urbanism Mehmet Özhaseki.

Speaking at the workshop, M. Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that Özhaseki is a minister with a private sector background and municipality management experience.

Hisarcıklıoğlu stated that the contractors are demanding increased discipline in the industry, saying, “When we experience an earthquake with a magnitude of 6, buildings collapse; others suffer magnitude 8 earthquakes and the buildings still stand.”

Hisarcıklıoğlu emphasized that those who can actually do the job must be registered, “Let’s create a structure that works independently, disciplines, punishes and organizes the conditions for entering the profession.” Hisarcıklıoğlu said that they have been working with two ministers which had previously worked on this topic, but that the work has stalled midway. He stated that they want to finalize the work on the relevant legislative changes during Minister Özhaseki's term.

Hisarcıklıoğlu underlined the necessity of opening up the market to competition, saying that competition will increase quality as well as decrease prices.

- Minister of Environment and Urbanism Mehmet Özhaseki

Environment and Urban Development Minister Mehmet Özhaseki also attended the workshop on the problems of the construction sector organized by the Confederation of Construction Contractors (İMKON). Minister Özhaseki gave important messages about the fight against terrorism as well as the problems of the industry during the workshop.

Referring to the treacherous terrorist attack that took place in Kayseri, Minister Özhaseki said, “This country is the last haven of oppressed people. This is a region of asylum. Those who were oppressed in the Balkans and the Caucasus came here. Nobody can take this away from us. An accursed affliction in the PKK. Even war has a certain dignity. These treacherous, ignoble people set IEDs. Where is morality; where is honor?”

- ATO Chair Baran

Chairman of Ankara Chamber of Commerce (ATO) Gürsel Baran stated that everybody recognizes contractors' domestic and international success.

Stressing that they, ATO, always stand with contractors, Baran stated that industry’s success, especially abroad, needs to put in a better position.

- İMKON President Tellioğlu

İMKON President Tahir Tellioğlu also stated that although they have been living in turmoil recently, they see this as a transition process from darkness to a brighter tomorrow.

Describing the problems of the sector, Tellioğlu recalled that, as of January 1^st, 2017, the conditions of vocational certification for employees in construction groups will be mandatory.

Stating that the construction sector has been left to fend for itself, Tellioğlu noted that TOBB is trying to help the sector as much as it can.

- Other speakers

Adem Ceylan, the President of the Vocational Proficiency Council (MYK), also informed the institution about its activities and stated that their basic principles are to provide qualifications for work life and sufficient staff in the profession.

MÜSİAD Ankara Branch Director İlhan Erdal also expressed his opinion against terrorist acts in his speech.

Beşiktaş Sports Club President Fikret Orman also participated in the workshop.