Trade unions consult over private sector deal

Belgium

After a final, lengthy round of bargaining, the cross-sector negotiations covering the private sector ended in the early hours of 8 June. The three trade union confederations are in the process of consulting with their members on the outcome. The main development is the proposed increase in the minimum wage – the first since 2008 – which will see an increase in the monthly amount from EUR 1625.72 to EUR 1702 in April 2022. There will be further increases in 2024 and 2026 which along with changes to taxation will mean net increases of EUR 100 and EUR 150. The deal also includes some improvements for older workers with the option, from 55, to work shorter hours and receive an allowance. The employers did not shift on the 0.4% pay rise and EUR 500 COVID-19 bonus that were covered in earlier negotiations.

RTBF news website (FR)
VRT news website (EN)

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