By Matti Koskinen, Head of International Affairs
Ammattiliitto Pro / Trade Union Pro
In Finland trade unions and the employers are still in negotiations on proposals designed to restrict collective bargaining and change working arrangements – but the Government have set a deadline of next Monday at 4 pm. The deadline is has been laid down by Prime Minister and there is no reason for this date, the only reason is political pressure.
SAK (Finnish TUC) has proposed that wage increases be waived in 2017 and that wage moderation could continue into 2018. After 2017 pay increases should be based on the export sector level, as it is done in Sweden.
Employees, meanwhile, would be made responsible for certain social security contributions instead of employers.
SAK has calculated that its measures would reduce unit labour costs by 4.2 per cent.
SAK’s proposal does not affect the terms and conditions of employment. In addition, wage earners would shoulder the burden of the measures more evenly as the proposal of the Government would place a greater burden on people working overtime and on Sundays.
For more details on the complexity of the situation: http://www.helsinkitimes.fi/finland/finland-news/domestic/13549-labour-market-organisations-still-seeking-a-compromise.html
