After the inconclusive second round of collective labor agreement negotiations for the 130,000 employees in the private health, healthcare and social sectors, the social partners resumed negotiations on Monday. The discussions are expected to last into the evening. The union has promised measures up to and including a strike if no agreement is reached.
In the latest round of negotiations in the Austrian social economy on November 15, the GPA and Vida unions stuck to their demand for a 15 percent salary increase – but at least 400 euros more. However, the employers stuck with their offer of 8.8 percent.
Strike decisions taken
At the works council conference of the GPA and Vida trade unions a week ago, preventive strike decisions were taken. If next Monday’s round of negotiations does not reach a conclusion, there is a risk of “further measures, including a strike”, a resolution said. It calls for “fair wage and salary increases and improvements in working conditions.”
Employer with improved offer
Shortly after negotiations began, the union said Monday it expected lengthy talks. The employers’ side also expects a long day of negotiations; the goal is to reach a conclusion. A spokesperson for the employers’ side said that they entered the negotiation day with an improved offer in terms of the legal framework conditions.
Source: Krone
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