On Monday, the social partners will meet for the third round of collective bargaining agreements for the 130,000 workers in the metalworking industry. The unions demand 10.6 percent more wages and salaries, the employers offer 4.1 percent. If no agreement is reached, warning strikes threaten across the metal industry. “We are prepared, the willingness of our colleagues to fight is enormous,” said union negotiator Rainer Wimmer.
Last week, the union held working meetings across Austria and across the metal industry. According to Wimmer, there were about 400.”There were unanimous resolutions for action everywhere. These will take effect if there is again no result. The expectations are huge. If there is no agreement and the employer side plays for time and delay, we will increase the pressure.”
Wimmer: ‘Haven’t given up hope’
Then the working meetings can continue, which can then culminate in warning strikes. According to Wimmer, strike committees have already been set up at some companies. “We are prepared. But we have not given up hope that employers will give in. The last 12 months have been very successful for the companies. So let people participate in this success.”
Knill: ‘Without functioning companies there is no work’
The employers’ side, represented by Styrian industrialist Christian Knill, recently pointed out that massive inflation affects everyone and that without a functioning company there would be no work and no tax revenue. “Especially this year, the state, companies and workers have to close ranks. We all work together and have a common interest: preserving jobs and prosperity in Austria,” emphasizes Knill.
Energy prices explode, industrial recession looms
The employer’s offer reflects the current very tense economic situation with an looming industrial recession and sky-high energy prices, also for the companies. It includes compensation for advancing core inflation (inflation without price increases of imported energy) and takes into account the federal government’s anti-inflation measures already implemented for all citizens.
“These are unique in the history of the Second Republic and should therefore be depicted in the overall situation. If you take the proposed wage and salary increase of 4.1% and add to that the cost of living, which covers between 50 and 100% of the additional costs for employees and their families, that is a housing allowance of 100% and for many people even significantly more. In addition, with innovative solutions, employees could directly share in the profits and success of the company,” says Knill.
According to him, people are still at the negotiating table, and that is also the only place for reasonable solutions in these uncertain times.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
