The ADEDY public service confederation and health workers' union managed to secure a meeting with the Minister of Finance earlier this month and a commitment to further meetings. However, on one of the main issues of the meeting - extending the allowance for dangerous work to all sectors - the Minister didn't agree and suggested that some workers might see cuts in order to make the allowance available to others. In response to calls to increase the number of permanent staff and reduce flexible contracts the Minister acknowledged the problem of underfunding, particular in healthcare, and indicated that the confederation would be consulted on the allocation of EUR 3.5 billion. The unions remain concerned about the government's plans in the light of the recent bailout deal which they see as locking the country into long-term austerity.
Union confederation raises key issues with finance minister
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