Tsoukala: The government brings an incomplete labor bill
Kostas Tsoukala criticized the Greek government for presenting an incomplete labor bill, emphasizing the need for reinstating collective bargaining rights and minimum wage regulations.
In a recent statement, Kostas Tsoukala criticized the Greek government's labor legislation, calling it incomplete. He argued that for effective collective bargaining to exist, the minimum wage should be defined by social partners through a National General Collective Labor Agreement. Tsoukala emphasized that the proposal is currently in front of the government, suggesting that it could potentially be accepted. Furthermore, he highlighted the necessity of reintroducing unilateral recourse to arbitration and strengthening the Organization for Mediation and Arbitration (OMED) to empower the workforce in collective negotiations.
Tsoukala pointed out the detrimental effects of legislative changes made by the ruling New Democracy party, specifically the abolition of unilateral recourse to arbitration, which has contributed to Greece having the lowest percentage of collective labor agreements in the EU. He disclosed that his party, PASOK, has submitted a legislative amendment to restore this right, reflecting their commitment to improving labor relations and protections in the country.
Additionally, Tsoukala commented on the recent meeting between the Greek Prime Minister and the Turkish President. He indicated that the outcomes of this meeting confirmed the previously low expectations. Tsoukala's statements suggest a broader concern for effective labor policies and international relations, highlighting the interconnectedness of domestic and foreign policy issues in Greece today.