Labor Minister Insists on ATA for All Workers

The Minister of Labor, Yiannis Panagiotou, reiterated the government's commitment to the universal application of the Automatic Cost of Living Adjustment (ATA) to all workers. Speaking on state radio, he stressed that the ATA is an important tool for boosting wages and protecting workers from the rising cost of living.

The minister called on employers and trade unions to show goodwill in the consultations to find a mutually acceptable solution. At the same time, he left open the possibility of legislative regulation if there is no agreement in the social dialogue, stressing that the government is ready to take responsibility.

Mr. Panagiotou stressed that no government policy will remove labor benefits from workers and that the government seeks to improve wages, as the middle class is no longer the majority of workers.

Finally, he addressed a message to the social partners, emphasizing the need for constructive contribution and mutual concessions in order to reach an agreement.