The Industry’s Working Rule Agreement detailing pay rates ran out in June 2009.

But union leaders and employers have made little progress since in thrashing-out a new deal leaving construction workers in a wages limbo.

The deal is negotiated under an umbrella body called the Construction Industry Joint Council which brings unions and employers’ bodies together

But talks have been complicated by a shake-up in the employers’ side which has seen the Construction Confederation fold since the last round of negotiations.

One industrial relations expert told the Enquirer: “The whole process is in chaos and no-one seems to know what to do next or who should be talking to who.

“The Construction Confederation used to take the lead in talks but it doesn’t exist any more and no-one seems to be stepping in to the breach.

“I’m surprised the unions aren’t saying more because the nett effect is a pay freeze for everyone.

“Both sides couldn’t reach an agreement in June 2009 and nothing much seems to have happened since.”

The last Working Rule Agreement expired on June 30 2009 so the 2008/09 minimum rates continue to apply in the industry.

A spokesman for construction union Ucatt said the Construction Industry Joint Council still existed and that “pay talks will resume in October.”