Impasse on Cost of Living Allowance (ATA): Gap Remains Between Employers and Unions

A meeting at the Ministry of Labor regarding the Automatic Cost of Living Adjustment (ATA) ended in deadlock, with both sides remaining entrenched in their positions. Despite lengthy discussions, the gap between employer and union organizations was not bridged, leaving open the possibility of strike action.

The central point of disagreement remains the percentage of ATA to be paid. The trade union movement is demanding full restoration of the institution to 100%, which the employer side does not accept. The Government has proposed linking the payment of ATA to the economic growth rates.

According to the unions, the employer sides did not open their cards beyond the position of no increase in costs. For their part, OEB and KEBE state that the dialogue must continue.

Monday is considered crucial, as the pan-union meeting is expected to decide on the further stance of the unions.

The General Secretary of PASYDY, Stratis Matthaiou, spoke of a gap in views, while the President of DEOK, Stelios Christodoulou, called on the Ministry of Labor to submit a proposal to restore the ATA. The General Director of OEB, Michalis Antoniou, said that the discussions are valuable, and the General Secretary of KEBE, Filokypros Rousounides, expressed concern about strike announcements.