Union prepares for provincial negotiations

The CNV Publieke Zaak union reports that there has been no progress in the negotiations covering Provincial Councils despite the breakthrough made in local government. A consultation of members over the employers' offer revealed a clear majority against and the reaction from the employers was to withdraw what they said was their final offer. The unions argue that the employers are showing little respect for members' efforts and dedication and further action by the trade unions is likely to follow. [Read more at > CNV Publieke Zaak (NL)->http://www.mijnvakbond.nl/Actiedreiging-CAO-Provincies

The ABVAKABO public services union reports that after a poor start some progress has been made in negotiations covering provincial government. The employers have responded positively on four issues – extra jobs targeted at the unemployed; the introduction of training budgets for individual workers; changes to the pay structure that will particularly benefit employees who are on the top of their scale; and new arrangements for carers so that they can temporarily change their working hours. The union warns, however, that some hard bargaining remains over pay and employment security. [Read more

After its first round of negotiations with provincial government employers, public service trade union ABVAKABO says that two issues have been settled – the agreement will run for 12 months and arrangements for reducing working time for older workers have been clarified. However, the next bargaining rounds could be more difficult. The union says that it might make concessions on pay in order to increase job security and get improved training and career development opportunities. In contrast, it appears that the employers are looking for a pay freeze, a few minor technical changes to conditions