2024-11-03 11:49:00
UGT and CCOO have urgently requested the approval of a Royal Decree Law that allows the application of ERTES for reasons of force majeure, facilitates teleworking and avoids the termination of temporary contracts, after the tragedy caused by DANA. In a statement released last Sunday, the unions express their deep dismay at the devastating floods that have hit several regions of the country.
Both unions underline that the repercussions on the work and living conditions of the working population have been seriously affected and ask for it the reactivation of the “social shield” used during the pandemicconsidering it essential. They ask that the Royal Decree include the application of ERTES without consuming unemployment benefits, to protect employment and allow a gradual recovery of businesses.
Furthermore, the unions ask a extraordinary protection of employees and self-employed workers who cannot resume their activities, avoid the termination of fixed-term contracts, protect those with discontinuous permanent contracts and allow teleworking to avoid unsafe movements while infrastructure is restored.
They also propose to implement a program similar to Mecuida to facilitate the adaptation or reduction of the working day and call for an immediate strengthening of health, social, employment and social security services in the face of the expected increase in requests.
“We deeply regret the loss of life, which reaches unbearable levels, and express our solidarity for the damage suffered to homes, infrastructure and equipment. This catastrophe has seriously affected areas inhabited and worked especially by the active population, who now face moments of extreme difficulty”, underline the unions.
They urge all public institutions to mobilize the necessary resources for rescue and emergency activities. They highlight the urgency of restoring access food, water, energy and basic servicesand address the economic and socio-labour impact in the affected areas. The immediate priority, they say, should be locating and recovering missing people, some of whom may be trapped in vehicles, basements or homes.
Quick help without excessive procedures
The unions are calling for aid to be activated quickly and without excessive procedures to cover personal and property damage and remind them of the need to address many people’s loss of income. They suggest supplementing public benefits and establishing moratoriums on mortgage payments for affected families.
The unions, similarly, have declared that they will claim responsibility for the decisions made, as well as for the omissions that have affected the lives of numerous workers. They regret that the “Irresponsibility and negligence” especially affect the working class.
“The disasters resulting from the climate emergency require structural public policies, without cuts or denial. Scientific foresight must be at the center of the response to these disasters, and cannot be replaced by ideological positions”, they conclude.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Labor Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, Dr. Lopez. Thank you for joining us to discuss the recent floods that have devastated several regions of our country and the urgent response by the unions UGT and CCOO.
Dr. Elena Lopez (EL): Thank you for having me. It’s crucial to talk about how these tragic events impact our workforce and communities.
TNE: The UGT and CCOO have called for a Royal Decree Law to activate ERTES for force majeure. How significant is this demand in the face of the current crisis?
EL: It’s incredibly significant. ERTES, or temporary layoffs due to extraordinary circumstances, offer a safety net for workers affected by the floods. The unions’ request highlights the need for immediate support to protect jobs. Without such measures, many could face unemployment and further economic hardship.
TNE: They also mentioned the importance of reactivating a “social shield,” similar to what was used during the pandemic. Can you explain why that is essential?
EL: Absolutely. The “social shield” is a framework that helped many individuals and families during the pandemic by providing financial protection and support for those who lost their jobs or faced reduced hours. Reactivating this would give workers a lifeline as they navigate the aftermath of the floods, allowing them to focus on recovery without the immediate threat of losing their livelihood.
TNE: The unions are advocating for special protections for temporary and self-employed workers as well. Why is this focus important?
EL: Temporary and self-employed workers often face greater vulnerabilities during crises. They don’t have the same safety nets as permanent employees. By ensuring their protection, the unions are acknowledging that all workers deserve support, especially in times of disaster. If we don’t safeguard these groups, we risk exacerbating the inequality in our labor market.
TNE: You’ve raised some critical points about the workforce. The proposal also includes measures to facilitate teleworking. What role do you see teleworking playing in the recovery process?
EL: Teleworking can be a game-changer, especially in areas where infrastructure is still being restored. It allows individuals to continue working safely from home, thus minimizing the risk of further harm or disruption. It also helps businesses maintain operations without the need for physical presence, which is key for economic recovery.
TNE: Besides immediate employment measures, the unions suggest a strengthening of health and social services. Why is this comprehensive approach crucial?
EL: A comprehensive approach is essential because the impact of such disasters extends beyond just employment. Mental health, physical health, and the overall well-being of the affected population must be prioritized. As we saw during the pandemic, a robust support system can alleviate the long-term effects of crises on communities. Adequate health and social services can help guide the recovery process more effectively.
TNE: Dr. Lopez, what do you think are the long-term implications if these demands are not met by the government?
EL: If the government fails to respond adequately, we could see lasting damage not just to the economy but also to social cohesion. Increased unemployment and a decline in living standards can lead to social unrest and a loss of trust in institutions. It’s vital for the government to act decisively, not just to alleviate the immediate impacts but to build resilience for future challenges.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Lopez, for your insights on this pressing issue. Your expertise helps shed light on the importance of supporting our workforce during such devastating times.
EL: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this critical topic. It’s imperative that we stand together and advocate for those affected.