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January 2010

• 26 Jan 2010
  Finland: Slow progress in negotiations on new collective agreements

  Negotiations for new collective agreements have progressed slowly, with industrial action arising in a number of sectors. During sectoral-level collective bargaining, the main labour market confederations focused on economic policy seeking to promote employment. However, the Confederation of Finnish Industries announced that it had broken off negotiations on a framework for pay increases after the confederation-level negotiations were made public.

• 26 Jan 2010
  Greece: Ombudsman plays active role in supporting gender equality

  Following transposition of the European equal treatment directive, the Greek Ombudsman is responsible for monitoring the principle of equal treatment. Its gender equality unit has published a report outlining the 230 complaints received since its establishment in May 2008. Women submitted almost 77% of the complaints. The majority of the cases of unequal treatment concern the terms and conditions of employment. Discrimination related to parental leave is most common.

• 26 Jan 2010
  Germany: Manufacturing companies show positive attitude towards older workers

  A survey of manufacturing and affiliated industries shows that companies cultivate a favourable attitude towards their older workers, which improves as the number of workers aged 50 years and over rises. However, where companies question older workers’ performance, employment protection legislation is likely to discourage their recruitment. At present, human resources policies for elderly employees aim to ensure the knowledge transfer between older and younger workers.

• 26 Jan 2010
  EU Level: ETUC criticises EU finance Council’s recommendation to cut public spending

  The economic crisis and subsequent recession have led to a major increase in unemployment across Europe. The best strategy to reduce unemployment remains contentious. Although the Council of the European Union favours a phased approach towards cutting public spending by 2011, the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) favours an increase in spending to secure further economic recovery. Some small and medium-sized enterprises agree with ETUC.

• 26 Jan 2010
  Malta: FORUM requests representation on Malta Council for Economic and Social Development

  In recent times, FORUM, a confederation of independent trade unions set up in 2004, has repeatedly voiced its request to be represented on Malta’s national tripartite institution for social dialogue, the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD). The employer organisations stated that, to fulfil this request, the trade unions represented on the MCESD would have to forfeit one seat on the council to make way for a FORUM representative.

• 26 Jan 2010
  Czech Republic: Increase in unemployment tempers wage demands

  The level of unemployment in the Czech Republic in 2009 has been considerably affected by the global economic crisis. Unemployment reached 5.3% in December 2008 and the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs estimated that it would rise to 5.7%–6% in 2009. Some estimates, however, forecast that it would increase to 8.5%, or even higher in certain regions. The automobile industry and the glass industry are particularly affected by the economic downturn.

• 26 Jan 2010
  Cyprus: Minimum wage exceeds 60% of average wage

  Effective retroactively from April 2009, new minimum salaries and wages for eight occupations covered by the relevant legislation have come into force in Cyprus. Based on the amount of increases granted, the minimum wages are the highest they have ever been and thus also cover the category of low-paid workers. In fact, the minimum wages in Cyprus are higher than the national minimum wages in several other European countries.

• 26 Jan 2010
  Czech Republic: Czech Airlines struggles to survive economic crisis

  Czech Airlines is facing a difficult economic outlook, with a loss exceeding CZK 2 billion (about €76 million) expected for 2009. The airline’s poor outlook is attributed to a dramatic drop in the number of passengers and lower price air tickets. As a result, pay and job cuts have been implemented at the company. Moreover, in a dramatic move, the management of the company resigned and have been forced to forego the receipt of bonuses.

• 26 Jan 2010
  Slovakia: New measures to combat unemployment in the pipeline

  Despite the success of some recent measures taken by the government to alleviate the impact of the economic crisis, employment levels continue to decline and unemployment is still rising. In November 2009, the government and social partners discussed plans to ease the effect of the economic crisis on employment. However, the social partners did not agree on the proposed measures. The government will decide on their implementation subject to financial resources.

• 26 Jan 2010
  Italy: Tense discussions expected at 16th Cgil congress

  In November 2009, the national directorate of the Italian General Confederation of Labour (Cgil) formally began preparations for the 16th congress of the largest trade union – in terms of membership – in Italy. The national directorate proposed two policy documents, on which discussion at the congress will be based. One of the documents has been put forward by the current general secretary of Cgil, while the other calls for a more aggressive policy stance.

• 26 Jan 2010
  France: Launch of Stiglitz report on economic performance and social progress

  In September 2009, the Commission on the Measurement of Economic Performance and Social Progress submitted its report to the French President. Trade union reactions to the report are generally favourable; however, they highlight certain limitations. Among the criticisms are that the report reduces all aspects of life to capital and that its focus is too narrow. Employers take the general view that any indicators must not be too restrictive or reduce competitiveness.

• 26 Jan 2010
  Estonia: Employers oppose change in sickness cash benefit system

  In July 2009, a new system of sickness cash benefits was introduced, in order to cut the state budget during the recession. The employer organisations opposed the new system at its approval stage in the summer. In October, the Estonian Employers’ Confederation consulted with the Chancellor of Justice arguing that the new system contradicts the constitution. The chancellor agreed, although no considerable changes have been made in the regulations so far.

• 26 Jan 2010
  Czech Republic: Social partners evaluate Czech EU Presidency

  On 30 June 2009, the Czech Republic’s Presidency of the European Union ended. The Czech priorities embraced three E’s: economy, energy and Europe in the world, with the motto ‘Europe without barriers’. The Confederation of Industry of the Czech Republic believes that the Czech Presidency was successful, despite the fall of the government during the six-month period. However, trade unions consider that the Presidency ignored most of the social agenda.

• 26 Jan 2010
  Belgium: Social partners welcome new agreement for 80,000 civil servants

  On 29 September 2009, the Minister of Civil Service and the public sector trade unions signed a sectoral agreement for 80,000 federal civil servants in Belgium. An increase in the end-of-year bonus is the most important financial aspect. Also significant is the setting up of two bipartite working groups to tackle issues related to career management. The agreement has been welcomed as striking a balance between budgetary constraints and human resources concerns.

• 26 Jan 2010
  Bulgaria: Norwegian and Bulgarian trade unions cooperate for better health and safety at work

  In late 2009, the Confederation of Independent Trade Unions in Bulgaria held training seminars for employee representatives in working conditions committees in the transport, metalworking and healthcare sectors. The seminars were part of a joint project with the Norwegian Confederation of Trade Unions. The project aims to strengthen social dialogue and capacity building of employee representatives in working conditions committees in six pilot sectors.

• 26 Jan 2010
  Denmark: Trade union leader outlines vision for one large union

  Declining membership numbers and stronger employer organisations are prompting the trade union movement to streamline its efforts. The president of the largest trade union in Denmark has recommended a merger of all trade unions affiliated to the Danish Trade Union Confederation into one single comprehensive union. The leaders of the other trade unions are sceptical in this regard but are generally positive towards the idea of comprehensive mergers.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Portugal: Portugal: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in Portugal. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Bulgaria: Bulgaria: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in Bulgaria. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Belgium: Belgium: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

• 21 Jan 2010
  Greece: Greece: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in Greece. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Finland: Finland: Representativeness of the European social partners – Personal services sector

• 21 Jan 2010
  Denmark: Denmark: representativeness of the European social partners – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in Denmark. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Slovenia: Slovenia: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in Slovenia. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Cyprus: Cyprus: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in Cyprus. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Sweden: Sweden: Representativeness of the European social partners – Personal services sector

• 21 Jan 2010
  Latvia: Latvia: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in Latvia. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Slovakia: Slovakia: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in Slovakia. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Hungary: Hungary: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in Hungary. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  France: France: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in France. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Luxembourg: Luxembourg: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in Luxembourg. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Czech Republic: Czech Republic: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in the Czech Republic. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Austria: Austria: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in Austria. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Spain: Spain: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

• 21 Jan 2010
  Netherlands: The Netherlands: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in the Netherlands. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Poland: Poland: Representativeness of European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in Poland. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  Ireland: Ireland: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in Ireland. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 21 Jan 2010
  United Kingdom: United Kingdom: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations – Personal services sector’

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the personal services sector in the United Kingdom. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Slovakia: Trade unions accept small pay increase in public sector

  The global economic crisis has curtailed the rate of wage growth in Slovakia. After four months of negotiations, the social partners have concluded the multi-employer collective agreements for the civil service and public service for 2010. The agreements allow for a modest 1% pay increase, which is several times lower than in previous years. Terms and conditions of employment in the public sector were also agreed without significant changes.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Spain: Cautious welcome for slight dip in unemployment

  The Spanish National Statistical Institute has presented the results of the Labour Force Survey for the third quarter of 2009. The survey shows a slight reduction in unemployment, combined with a decrease in employment and a substantial loss of stable jobs. Reactions of the government and social partners have been cautious, citing different reasons for the first reduction in two years in the number of unemployed persons.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Sweden: Heated debate among social partners on reform of labour market model

  The employer organisation Almega finds it a necessity to adjust the Swedish labour market model to the conditions and reality of today’s industry and private services sectors. The trade unions have responded with strong criticism and reject the need to reform the Swedish collective bargaining system. They defend the existing model and believe that the challenges the labour market currently faces can well be handled within the existing structures and negotiation model.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Spain: Positive outcome for non-EU workers’ voluntary return programme

  The government recently presented the results of the Non-EU Foreign Workers’ Voluntary Return Programme. The programme provides for the early lump-sum payment of unemployment contributory benefits to non-EU foreign workers returning to their home country. Despite some positive results, the trade unions criticised the government for not accepting their proposal for a moratorium under which unemployed non-EU foreign workers can renew their residency card in Spain.

• 19 Jan 2010
  EU Level: Social partners look at impact of climate change on employment

  In the run-up to the climate conference, which was due to take place in Copenhagen in December 2009, the social partners at EU level have been considering the relationship between climate change and employment policies. In particular, they are calling for climate change initiatives to take account of the need to sustain employment, not only creating new jobs but also ensuring that workers possess the skills to work in new, greener jobs.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Finland: Employers and trade unions disagree over age of retirement

  The Confederation of Finnish Industries (EK) has proposed that the standard age of retirement should be raised to 67 years. This proposal has sparked anger among trade unions, which are warning that the country could face a ‘pension war’ if employers try to raise the retirement age. EK argues that an effective strategy to extend working life should involve a quicker transition from education to the labour market, promote well-being at work and reform the pension scheme.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Lithuania: National agreement to combat economic downturn finally signed

  After several months of negotiations, the Lithuanian government and the national peak social partner organisations finally signed a national agreement on 28 October 2009. The agreement concerns the application of fundamental measures of social and economic policies during the economic downturn, that is, until the end of 2010. However, several independent trade unions abstained from signing the agreement.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Netherlands: KPN sets example by appointing women to key executive positions

  Telecommunications company KPN has taken the lead as the first group to exclusively invite women to apply for executive positions. In doing so, the company is taking a step further than the Dutch House of Representatives, which adopted a proposal of the governing Labour Party in October 2009 to introduce a target of 30% for women in executive positions in large companies. A manifesto drafted by 240 women in executive positions calls for a quota of 40%.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Sweden: Divergent social partner positions prior to 2010 bargaining round

  Wage formation in the 2010 bargaining round will be difficult due to the high level of recent restructuring in Swedish industries and the financial crisis. The social partners have begun to outline their positions before the large wage negotiation round for 2010 commences. Trade unions claim that there is scope for some wage increases, despite the financial crisis and low level of economic activity. Employers assert that there is no room for wage increases in times of recession.

• 19 Jan 2010
  France: Citizens vote against change in legal status of La Poste

  In order to mark their opposition to the change in legal status of La Poste, which is the subject of a draft bill, a group of associations, trade unions and political parties organised a citizens’ consultation on 3 October 2009. More than 2.3 million citizens took part, with 90% of them voting against the measure. The initiative highlights French people’s strong attachment to local public services, as well as a growing appetite for more direct forms of democracy.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Spain: Divergence over employment policies lead to breakdown in social dialogue

  Social dialogue is considered as having officially broken down in Spain. Only a year has elapsed since the social partners and the government signed a joint statement on consolidating social dialogue and viewing it as ‘one of the most important assets of our model of labour relations’. It appears, however, that the proposals of the employer organisations have caused an apparently irreconcilable rift with the government and trade unions, leading to a complete breakdown in dialogue.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Slovenia: New trade union enhances representativeness of defence sector

  Up until July 2009, three trade unions were active in the defence activities subsector. On 4 July 2009, a fourth union, the Soldiers’ Trade Union of Slovenia (SVS), was founded, 18 years after the Slovenian army came into existence. The SVS leadership has explained that soldiers did not have a trade union to represent their interests adequately, particularly in terms of communicating their potential disagreement. As a result, they felt that their rights were being violated.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Greece: Employees and policyholders left in limbo after Aspis Pronoia licence suspended

  In September 2009, the Board of Directors of the Private Insurance Supervisory Committee unanimously decided to revoke the operating licence of the Aspis Pronoia Group on an indefinite basis. The decision was taken due to the group’s failure to meet its obligations to both policyholders and employees. The development affects some one million insured persons and the future of more than 700 of the company’s permanent employees.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Poland: Police officers protest against non-payment of social benefits

  For several months, Polish police officers have been complaining that they are not receiving overdue social benefits on top of their regular salaries. These benefits comprise a significant part of the take-home pay of the uniformed services. Despite calls from trade unions, the government has not guaranteed payment of the benefits. Thus, a protest was held on 1 December 2009, attended by several thousand police officers and representatives of the European Confederation of Police.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Bulgaria: Road building company found in breach of labour law

  Serious violations of fundamental rights have been observed at the construction site of the motorway ‘Lyulin’ close to Bulgaria’s capital city Sofia, for which the Turkish company, Mapa Cengiz, won the call for open tender in 2007. After more than a year, the workers decided to organise themselves and protest against the violations, involving the regional and national structures of the Confederation of Independent Trade Unions in Bulgaria and the General Labour Inspectorate.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Sweden: New procedure for collective bargaining in services sector

  Since the mid 1990s, the manufacturing industry has set the norm in terms of the level of wage increases in Sweden. This approach stems from the idea that a sector exposed to international competition should set wage levels. Thus, the social partners in the services sector have set up a similar agreement to avoid conflict and contribute to a responsible wage-setting mechanism. Reactions to the agreement have been mixed, and actors left out of the process are surprised and critical.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Slovakia: Social partners address restructuring at national seminar

  In October 2009, representatives of the government, employers, trade unions and researchers discussed issues concerning restructuring in Slovakia at the National Seminar on Restructuring in Bratislava – organised by the International Training Centre. The participants discussed tools and measures used for anticipating and managing restructuring in Slovakia. Particular attention was paid to measures and tools applied during the current economic crisis.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Italy: Mixed reaction to changes in health and safety code of workers

  Decree No. 106 of 3 August 2009 integrates and modifies Decree No. 81/2008, known as the Code for the Health and Safety of Workers (Consolidated Act on health and safety at the workplace). Trade unions have expressed conflicting opinions on the amendments. However, employers have welcomed the latest decree, with the General Confederation of Italian Industry – which had previously opposed Decree 81/08 – viewing the modifications favourably.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Germany: Working time accounts and short-time work used to maintain employment

  According to a survey by the Institute of Economic and Social Research, 51% of all companies with 20 and more employees and a works council are affected by the economic crisis. However, only a minority of companies have massively laid off workers. The survey revealed that the two most widespread methods used to cut costs while maintaining employment levels have been working time accounts and short-time work. Nonetheless, cuts in employment have also occurred in various ways.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Finland: National wage negotiations at a standstill

  After the new collective agreement in the technology industry that opened the 2009 bargaining round, little progress has been made on wage negotiations. Trade unions seem to be awaiting signs concerning the direction of the economy. The employer side has offered a so-called ‘wage anchor’ model on the basis of the collective agreement in the technology field. However, trade unions have rejected this proposal, as the pay increases in 2010 and 2011 were not decided.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Italy: Agreement renewed in information technology sector

  In October 2009, all parties in the information and communications technologies sector agreed on the renewal of the nationwide collective agreement for employees of telecommunications companies. The agreement covers 160,000 workers in the sector and provides for pay increments. It also introduces innovations in relation to part-time work, leave provisions, supplementary bargaining and the grading of call-centre workers. The trade unions welcomed the agreement.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Latvia: Sharp decline of footwear industry over twenty-year period

  Since the transition to the market-oriented economy, the structure of Latvia’s national economy has changed significantly with the transformation from a manufacturing to a service-based economy. The footwear industry is one of the industries in which competitiveness declined significantly during the period of market liberalisation. Today, the total added value of the footwear industry is relatively small, and there is no registered trade union in the industry.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Bulgaria: Conflicting reactions to 2010 draft budget

  The social partners’ reactions to the 2010 draft budget proved to be divided at a meeting of the National Council for Tripartite Cooperation in October 2009. The trade union side contends that the government is transferring the burden of the crisis to workers and the poor. Despite their initial support, the employers believe that the macroeconomic framework is rather optimistic and that it lacks real focus in finding ways to emerge from the crisis.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Norway: Increased sickness absenteeism fuels debate over sick pay scheme

  Sickness absenteeism in Norwegian working life rose by about 10% in 2009 compared to 2008; government expenditure on sickness benefits has thus increased substantially. The Norwegian Prime Minister emphasised in November 2009 the need to find measures by which to reduce sickness absence levels, but stressed that it will not involve abandoning the present scheme which provides full pay compensation during illness.

• 19 Jan 2010
  Slovakia: Social partners disagree over minimum wage level

  The minimum wage level is again a matter of disagreement among the social partners. Despite the economic crisis, the trade unions propose a similar minimum wage increase as in 2008. The employers refuse such an increase, with some even asking for a decrease. As the social partners could not reach agreement, the government has legal power to increase the minimum wage. However, it has not yet negotiated a new level and, due to the crisis, the minimum wage increase might be smaller this year.

• 18 Jan 2010
  Sweden: Crisis in automotive sector puts industrial relations under strain

  The Swedish automotive sector has been hit hard by the economic recession, witnessing a considerable decline in jobs and production, and is currently facing major challenges as both Saab and Volvo Cars are for sale. The social partners have criticised the government for being too passive and for not taking the actions needed to save jobs. However, the government wants to avoid supporting individual sectors, arguing that employees will be protected by the social welfare system.

• 18 Jan 2010
  United Kingdom: Survey highlights employer responses to recession and employment regulation

  The Confederation of British Industry’s latest employment trends survey, published in November 2009, provides data on employer views and policies on a range of industrial relations issues. Respondents expressed concern at the volume of employment regulation and the implications of the Directive on agency work. However, most felt that the potential withdrawal of the individual opt-out from the 48-hour weekly working limit was unlikely to have a detrimental impact on their organisation.

• 18 Jan 2010
  Greece: Controversy over sectoral bargaining in banking

  Since 2006, the procedure for concluding sectoral collective agreements in banking has been unsatisfactory, since several major banks and the Hellenic Bank Association refuse to come to the bargaining table with a view to signing a sectoral collective agreement. While the trade unions have accused the employers of attempting to abolish sectoral bargaining, the decision on pay rises was taken through arbitration procedures in 2008 and 2009.

• 18 Jan 2010
  Portugal: Compulsory arbitration ends bargaining impasse in print and graphics industry

  The unprecedented decision to adopt compulsory arbitration has ensured the revision of the collective agreement in the graphics and printing industry, following a deadlock in the negotiations. The compulsory arbitration has not only put an end to one of the more prolonged impasses in sectoral collective bargaining; it has also led to changes in line with the technological evolution and modernisation that has been underway in the industry in recent decades.

• 18 Jan 2010
  Norway: Proposed equal pay fund faces rocky road ahead

  In October 2009, the Norwegian government signaled its intention to contribute to an equal pay compensation fund. The issue of how to distribute such a fund has divided trade unions in Norway. It is expected that the matter may be incorporated into the upcoming bargaining round in the spring of 2010. However, due to a number of obstacles, a decision on the matter may be postponed until the 2012 wage settlement.

• 18 Jan 2010
  Finland: Mixed reaction from unions to tax freeze in exchange for wage moderation

  The proposal of the Ministry of Finance not to raise income tax if trade unions accept moderate pay increases has gained conditional support from the trade union confederations. However, trade unions representing the public sector have not been enthusiastic about the offer. Some unions have expressed scepticism about whether the employer organisations will agree to any pay increases, while others have criticised the finance minister’s proposal as being insufficient.

• 18 Jan 2010
  Sweden: Social partners review temporary layoff agreements

  Temporary layoffs are a new feature in Swedish industrial relations. Trade unions differ in their opinions about the success of such agreements. Some trade unions and employer organisations argue that they have saved thousands of jobs during the economic crisis, while some unions claim that the agreements – which are supposed to reduce both working time and wages – are only cutting pay. Employers organisations are now seeking to prolong the agreements.

• 18 Jan 2010
  Germany: Gender pay gap shown to exist even at start of career

  A survey carried out by the Institute of Economic and Social Research reveals that, even at the start of their career, women earn considerably less than their male counterparts. Compared with the gender pay gap among older employees, the gap among those starting their career is slightly smaller in western Germany, but is wider in eastern Germany. The gender pay gap among career starters varies considerably according to economic sector and occupation.

• 18 Jan 2010
  Poland: Social partners to implement agreement on harassment and violence at work

  Six social partner organisations met in October 2009 to negotiate the implementation of the European framework agreement on harassment and violence at work in Poland. Both sides confirmed their commitment to the negotiations and agreed that, although the dialogue is autonomous, it may be necessary to prepare labour law recommendations for the government. The social partners also pointed to different barriers to implementing the agreement.

• 18 Jan 2010
  Latvia: Boosting employment during economic recession

  The economic downturn has affected working conditions and increased unemployment in Latvia. In November 2009, the unemployment rate in Latvia reached 15.1%. The proportion of registered unemployed people differs by region, with 42% of all registrations in the Riga region. However, unemployment in Riga is the third lowest in Latvia at 11.5%. To reduce the social effects of unemployment, the State Employment Agency has initiated several projects to support those affected.

• 18 Jan 2010
  United Kingdom: Social partners react to planned public spending cuts

  In December 2009, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) outlined their positions on the public spending cuts proposed by all three main UK political parties in the run-up to the general election due in 2010. The TUC fears that spending cuts will lead to job losses, deteriorating employee terms and conditions as well as poorer service provision in the public sector. The CBI believes that cuts are necessary to restore the economic health of the UK.

• 18 Jan 2010
  Cyprus: Economic crisis triggers government response at national and sectoral levels

  In order to reduce the effects of the economic crisis on the Cypriot economy, the government has decided to introduce a package of measures, finalised at the beginning of November 2009. The measures aim to stimulate the economy, on the one hand, and to protect employment on the other. Among the measures are retraining programmes and incentives for hiring unemployed people. The measures have been largely welcomed by the social partners.

• 15 Jan 2010
  EU Level: ECHR upholds right to collective bargaining and to strike

  The European Court of Human Rights made two recent judgements in the cases of Demir and Baykara v. Turkey and Enerji Yapi-Yol Sen v. Turkey. The cases declare that Article 11 of the European Convention on Human Rights includes a right to collectively bargain and precludes a blanket ban on a right to strike.

• 15 Jan 2010
  Belgium: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Belgium

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Belgium. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Czech Republic: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Czech Republic

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in the Czech Republic. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Portugal: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Portugal

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Portugal. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Sweden: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Sweden

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Sweden. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  EU Countries: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation

  This study delineates the situation regarding social dialogue in the civil aviation industry. The study consists of three main parts: a summary of the sector’s economic background; an analysis of the social partner organisations in all of the EU Member States, with special emphasis on their membership, their role in collective bargaining and public policy, and their national and European affiliations; and finally, an analysis of the relevant European organisations, in particular their membership composition and their capacity to negotiate. The aim of the EIRO representativeness studies is to identify the relevant national and supranational social partner organisations in the field of industrial relations in selected sectors. The impetus for these studies arises from the goal of the European Commission to recognise the representative social partner organisations to be consulted under the EC Treaty provisions. Hence, this study is designed to provide the basic information required to establish and evaluate sectoral social dialogue.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Spain: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Spain

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Spain. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Slovakia: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Slovakia

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Slovakia. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Poland: Representativeness study of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Poland

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Poland. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Ireland: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Ireland

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Ireland. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Estonia: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Estonia

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Estonia. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  United Kingdom: Representativeness of European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – United Kingdom

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in the United Kingdom. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Lithuania: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Lithuania

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Lithuania. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Luxembourg: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Luxembourg

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Luxembourg. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Latvia: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Latvia

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Latvia. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  France: Representativeness of European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – France

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in France. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Slovenia: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Slovenia

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Slovenia. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Hungary: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Hungary

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Hungary. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Cyprus: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Cyprus

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer associations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation sector in Cyprus. In particular, in order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Germany: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Germany

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Germany. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Finland: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Finland

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Finland. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Denmark: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Denmark

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Denmark. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Romania: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Romania

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Romania. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Malta: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Malta

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Malta. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Greece: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Greece

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Greece. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Austria: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Austria

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Austria. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Netherlands: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Netherlands

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in the Netherlands. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Italy: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Italy

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Italy. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 12 Jan 2010
  Bulgaria: Representativeness of the European social partner organisations: Civil aviation – Bulgaria

  The aim of this representativeness study is to identify the respective national and supranational actors (i.e. trade unions and employer organisations) in the field of industrial relations in the civil aviation industry in Bulgaria. In order to determine their relative importance in the sector’s industrial relations, this study will, in particular, focus on their representational quality as well as on their role in collective bargaining.

• 11 Jan 2010
  EU Countries: Telework in the European Union

  This report examines the phenomenon of telework in the EU – particularly in the context of the European Framework Agreement on Telework, which was signed by the peak social partners in July 2002. The report first assesses the incidence of telework across the 27 EU Members States and Norway, highlighting the overall increase in telework usage. It goes on to examine the regulatory framework for telework, with a particular focus on the European Framework Agreement’s implementation in the context of national industrial relations systems and given the unique nature of this autonomous agreement. The report also looks at issues concerning the employment and working conditions of teleworkers – such as health and safety, data protection, access to training and the voluntary nature of telework. It concludes with an overview of the social partners’ position on telework.