CCP Proposals a 'Consensus Platform' for Amendments in Labour Legislation
In a significant development, João Vieira Lopes, the president of the Confederation of Portuguese Workers (CCP), has expressed optimism about the potential for reaching agreements on labor law revisions, even in challenging times. This optimism stems from the history of reaching compromises, as demonstrated during the 'troika' period.
The ongoing dialogue between the government and social partners has been evident since the proposal for labor law revisions was presented. Bilateral meetings have been a common occurrence, with the aim of finding consensual points in social dialogue and bilateral meetings or working groups.
The government's proposed changes cover various areas, including parental leave, breastfeeding, gestational mourning, flexible work, training in companies, and the experimental period of employment contracts. The draft project also includes the return of individual bank hours.
CCP, for its part, admits that some additional proposals may be necessary. One demand that the confederation agrees with is the end of restrictions on "outsourcing." Interestingly, the confederation believes that the proposals in the government's draft project converge with business demands over the years.
The debates are taking place in the first social dialogue meeting after the proposal was presented, named "Work XXI." The proposed changes also foresee an expansion of sectors covered by minimum services in case of strike.
João Vieira Lopes has initiated contacts with both business confederations and trade union centers. He acknowledges that there are criticisms of trade union centers regarding the government's proposal, which they believe weakens workers' rights. However, he hopes that the social dialogue meeting will be the start of a positive negotiation process.
Recently, João Vieira Lopes held a meeting with the President of the Republic at the Belém Palace in Lisbon. The government's draft project for revising labor legislation is being debated with social partners, with the aim of finding a consensus that benefits all parties involved.
Despite the sensitive issues at hand, João Vieira Lopes believes that the process of changing labor law may take some time. He remains hopeful, expressing his hope that the dialogue will lead to a positive outcome for the Portuguese workforce.
