The Ecuadorian Labor Minister announced a proposal that allows for two additional working hours to be compensated either financially or with time off, clarifying that the 40-hour workweek remains unchanged.
In an effort to modify the labor regulations in Ecuador, Labor Minister Harold Burbano introduced a proposal that would allow for the increase of the standard workweek by two additional hours, which could be compensated with either payment or time off. He emphasized that the current labor law, which mandates a 40-hour work week, will not be altered by this new regulation. The minister's announcement follows the fallout from the premature release of a Ministerial Agreement that suggested extending the workday to twelve hours under certain circumstances, which he clarified is not yet in effect.
The proposal comes at a time when the government is seeking to modernize labor policies to better accommodate the needs of workers without infringing on existing rights. According to Burbano, many workers support the initiative because it presents a beneficial option for them rather than an advantage for employers. He reassured the public that customary practices, such as the deduction of vacation time, would not be applicable under this new proposal, aiming to improve overall worker welfare.
One practical example given involved a worker needing to take their child to dialysis on a specific day, highlighting the necessity for more flexible working hours. By allowing the option of extra hours in a manner that can be manageable for workers, the government hopes to foster a more adaptable work environment while maintaining protections afforded under current labor legislation.
