SEK: Improved Wage Benefits Through Contract Expansion

The General Secretary of SEK, Andreas Matsas, stated that the expansion of collective agreements will lead to improved wage benefits, expansion of Welfare Funds, and full Cost of Living Allowance (ATA) for all. The statement was made at the 30th Pancyprian Congress of SEK in Nicosia.

Mr. Matsas emphasized the need to utilize the institutional framework of cooperation due to the crisis in the Middle East. In his speech, titled "Collective Agreements for All - Foundation of Fair Labor and Social Progress", in the presence of the President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides and the President of the Parliament Annita Demetriou, he mentioned that the congress will address trade union priorities for workers.

Furthermore, Mr. Matsas called on the Parliament to expedite the voting of the bill for the expansion of collective agreements. He also referred to the need to ensure ATA and the implementation of the agreement for mandatory collective agreements as a prerequisite for public contracts.

Regarding measures against inflation, he proposed improving wages, reducing the tax burden, and improving social benefits. He also requested a housing policy and a review of the minimum wage.

Finally, he referred to the need for a smooth transition to digital technology and improved productivity, as well as addressing the gaps in the Strategy for the Employment of Workers from Third Countries.