The relevant minister on Monday categorically denied local press reports that the government was considering the elimination of the so-called “13th” and “14th” monthly payments still enjoyed by full-time wage-earners in the private sector, condeming what he called “contrived news reports claiming that the measure is on the table.”
Labor Minister Giorgos Katrougalos was referring to a bevy of press reports claiming that creditors will push for labor sector liberalization and reforms in the next round of talks next autumn over a second review of the Greek program (third bailout).
The extra two months of salary must be paid by Greek employers before Orthodox Easter (half a month’s wages) and the beginning of an employee’s summer vacation (the other half month’s wages) , whereas an additional month’s pay is granted during the Christmas-New Year’s holidays.
Nevertheless, beyond the minister’s stern denial, speculation is rife in the Greek capital that issues “on the table” of looming negotiations include changes to the regime protecting labor unions’ representatives in the workplace; a move to declare industrial actions only with an absolute majority (50 percent + 1); a proposed increase in the time needed to declare a strike, from 24 to 48 hours; a change in the manner in which labor unions are funded, and a loosening on the legal obstacles against employers’ lockouts.
However, the most controversial item reportedly on an upcoming agenda of negotiations is a liberalization of the regime preventing mass layoffs in the country.
