Thousands Miss Out on Social Security Despite Job Boom

Despite the creation of 100,000 jobs in the Peninsula due to federal projects, a significant number of workers are left without Social Security. Quintana Roo, Campeche, and Yucatán have seen a surge in employment opportunities, largely due to the construction of the Mayan Train. The jobs offer salaries ranging from 16,000 to 18,000 pesos per month. However, there is a 40% evasion rate in Social Security, leaving 40,000 workers without coverage, primarily due to inadequate supervision at work sites.

Five reports of extortion related to safety have been filed, with one case being forwarded to the Special Prosecutor's Office for Combat against Extortion and Kidnapping. Investment in public works has risen by 30 to 40% in Quintana Roo over the past three years. In contrast, the hotel industry has seen a decline of a similar percentage. While the housing sector has remained stable, it is anticipated to see a decrease in hires, particularly following the completion of the Mayan Train.

The construction of the Nichupté bridge has directly created 400 jobs, with predictions of this number rising to 1,200 by year-end. In the realm of education, there is an agreement with the Adult Education Institute for workers wishing to complete their primary and secondary education. However, persistent complaints about Social Security and unclaimed worker deaths continue to plague the sector.

The union leader revealed that 11 people have died in the state's construction industry in the past year. The number of workers injured in work accidents or reported missing remains unknown, as in previous years. The union ensures that the families of deceased unionized workers receive compensation. However, the number of non-unionized construction workers is alarmingly high, with no precise figures available. It is estimated that the number of workers has dropped from around 170,000 two to three years ago to about 80,000 today, primarily due to the workforce employed by the Mayan Train project.

Manuel Amaya, a construction worker, highlighted that employers seldom contribute to Social Security, particularly for smaller projects. For private projects, Social Security is often overlooked as employers aim to cut costs.

Similarly, contractor Mario Ruiz noted that making Social Security payments is burdensome for both contractors and the owners who hire them. Few contractors contribute to Social Security for private jobs as they also seek to minimize costs. This contrasts with larger projects where worker registration with Social Security is budgeted for to ensure worker protection and care. While there have been no worker deaths under his supervision, Ruiz believes that authorities should simplify the process.