The CCOO union has released figures for the number of deaths in the construction industry in Alicante Province for 2009.Even though the construction industry was in such a terrible state during 2009 there were still 19 deaths,nine more than in 2008 when there were 72,000 people working in the industry.In 2009 the workforce had dropped by 50% over 2008.A spokesperson for the union said that when you look back over the last decade the worst year was 2003 with 12 deaths followed by 2007 and 2008 with 10 in each year.

The union is attributing the increase in deaths last year to companies cutting back on health and safety issues which are designed to prevent accidents.Many workers could be afraid to say anything about the increased risks because they are afraid of losing their jobs.If this philosophy continues then more and more will lose their lives.

Already in January of 2010 there have been 3 deaths and all of those who have died have been under the age of 35.Two workers died in Alicante and one in Calpe.They were all working at heights.