Unions propose framework of actions on training for European electricity industry

(29 May 2012) The unions proposed a framework of actions on training to Eurelectric in the context of European sectoral social dialogue committee. The proposal is based on elements of different statements the unions and employers have adopted over the years. The proposal also suggest to consider a common view on the recent Commission proposal for a Youth Guarantee and the Quality Framework for Trainees which are part of the Towards a Job Rich recovery communication published on 18 April 2012. The unions suggested to focus on a number of priorities such as adaptation to climate change, retraining of older workers, young workers and apprenticeships and gender mainstreaming in training and recruitment. The employers side will consider the proposal and further discussion is foreseen.

Other issues considered by the social dialogue committee:
- A presentation on the first results of the mapping exercise. A representative of EDF presented the long-term planning process in this company.
- The progress with the nuclear stress tests following the meltdown of the nuclear power stations in Fukushima was presented by a representative of the European Commission. She also referred to the final conclusions of the European Nuclear Safety regulators ENSREG. Follow-up is needed with regard to the (long-term) direct and indirect employment effects of decommissioning of nuclear power stations. Another points which was raised in the discussion was the lack of interest of people to study nuclear physics.
- Update on the 5th Social Forum of the Energy Community.

The meeting took place on 25 May 2012, in Brussels. The EPSU delegation was represented by colleagues from Czech Republic, France Germany, Italy, Ireland, Netherlands, Slovenia, Spain and UK as well as by the EPSU Deputy General Secretary.