Confederations agree on period of action over labour code

The CMKOS trade union confederation has attacked proposals for major changes to the Czech labour code. The plans were announced in March before the collapse of the government and the confederation argues that this means that there is now no mandate for the changes. The reforms focus on creating a more flexible labour market that would make it easier for employers to dismiss employees and to make greater use of fixed-term workers. If implemented the changes would also undermine collective bargaining and the rights of trade unions at the workplace. [Read more at > CMKOS (EN)->http://www.cmkos.cz

ETUC general secretary Bernadette Ségol and the presidents of the six Hungarian trade union confederations have met with Employment Commission Andor to express their serious concerns about proposals to change the Labour Code. The changes pose a threat to trade union recognition, the rights of trade union representatives and the protection of pregnant workers against dismissal. The ETUC points out that such changes clearly conflict with European Union standards for social dialogue and the provisions of the fundamental charter of social rights. [Read more at > ETUC (EN)->http://www.etuc.org/a

Following general elections last year, the new government has taken some steps towards improving the labour code. The code had been changed in 2003 leaving it providing few protections for workers or trade unions. Unfortunately, the revised code still includes unreasonable restrictions on the right to strike, while working hours, maternity protection and compensation for overtime and night work are insufficiently regulated. The Georgian trade union movement was consulted over changes but some key amendments were withdrawn following lobbying by national and international employer organisations