European utility unions’ defend purchasing power and obtain real wage increases for workers
( 04 April 2008, Brussels) Unions reported on the results of collective bargaining. Purchasing power had been maintained for workers and in some cases real wage increases have been obtained that reflect productivity increases and the high profits of companies. Strike action was undertaken in several cases. The EPSUCOB@ network commences to cover a larger number of agreements. The unions support the ETUC Pay Campaign.
Other issues considered:
• The unions discussed a first draft of a resolution covering the energy, water and waste areas to be proposed to the EPSU Congress (2009). Key issues are: the defense of water as a human right and water not for sale; energy and climate change and dealing with social dumping in the waste sector. This will be considered further and unions will be able to make amendments. Final discussion will take place at the committee meeting 21 October;
• Results of the social dialogue in the electricity sector and new projects such as on demographic change and restructuring. A detailed discussion took place on the follow up and implementation of agreements and joint positions reached with Eurelectric by the trade unions and the problems encountered;
• The forthcoming social dialogue meeting with Eurogas. The unions considered the importance of joint work on the internal market and implications of unbundling for the workers;
• Internal market for electricity and gas. The unions will be in contact with their members in the European parliament to lobby for EPSU positions especially to focus on the social implications of the proposals of the Commission and the European Parliament;
• Work of the ETUC on Climate Change, European energy policy of the Pan-European Regional Council of the trade unions, the EPSU work in South East Europe and the PSI Energy action plan were noted. A work group will be established to deal with the EU Strategic Energy Review;
• European Waste Framework Directive. EPSU supports the waste hierarchy, ambitious targets and the need to cover hazardous waste and skilled workforce. The possibilities for a work group to follow up an earlier meeting are explored;
• Water. Members agreed to organise a water seminar at the European Social Forum in Malmo (18-21 September). Concerns were addressed around the efforts of the European Commission to work on a Directive for concessions. It is seen as an attempt to open water services for competition;
• European Parliament elections 2009. Members approved key issues for water and energy policy which are expected from political parties and MEPs. The EP should work to recognise water as a human right and commit not to support initiatives to commercialise water, promote public water in its development policy. As regards energy policy Members expect a commitment of the EP to public investment in research on renewable and low-carbon technologies as well as to Just transition principles and a social chapter in energy policy.
The Standing Committee received a recommendation from the EPSU EWC Coordinators regarding rules on the use of the EPSU Legal Assistance Fund. These were approved and recommended to the Executive Committee.
The EPSU Standing Committee on Public Utilities took place 3 April 2009, Luxembourg.
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