Workers who are covered by a Force Majeure Temporary employment Regulation (ERTE) file due to the fateful DANA of last October 29th They will be able to collect their paycheck for November advance manner in December even if the companies submitted the request after the deadlines and after the November payroll deadline. This was ensured by the Ministry of Labor thanks to an agreement between the Government and financial bodies and which communicates, through social networks, after the complaints made by ERTE employees – as reported yesterday by the Levante-EMV newspaper – why their services woudl not be paid until January 10, as announced to them by State Public Service for Employment (SEPE).
Until yesterday the Government was counting on this 30,417 workers in ERTE force majeure situationsthe majority in work centers in the Valencian Community, even though there are also in other territories, for a total of 2,882 requesting companies. Ministry sources, however, specified that the use of this advance “will not be necesary in all cases”, since there is a “decoupling” between the ERTE request due to force majeure and the workers who actually go to the ERTE, who they could be lower than those authorized by the Employment Authority - the figure of which has not been specified – because it is simply “not necessary” for them to apply.
Workers will be able to go to their bank and request advance payment of the November paycheck if the benefit was recognized after November 28th, which is the maximum deadline recognized by SEPE for closing the month’s paycheck, and that they pay, in arrears, on the 10th of the following month, in this case on december 10th. ERTE recognition depends on General Directorate of Labor of Valencian Generalitat.
Awaiting processing
Regarding the delay in payment of paychecks in some cases, the Independent Secretary of Labor, Antonio Galvañ, called on the government to “arbitrate solutions to bring forward payment to workers affected by ERTE who are left waiting to be processed so that no person goes without pay before Christmas”. Galvañ underlined that the Consell had put in place all the mechanisms so that the resolution of the ERTE was as agile as possible and those affected could see their benefit recognized without the need to take measures. in this sense, he indicated that currently 98.1% of the files presented have been resolved.
The head of Labor recognized that all administrations have made an effort to make this possible that over 15,000 benefits are recognized and will be collected on December 10th. People affected by ERTE are entitled to contributory benefits for the suspension of the contract or the reduction of working hours as a result of the DANA. This benefit will not require previous contribution periods (it is not necessary to have worked and contributed for a minimum of 360 days) and there is no consumption of contribution periods.
Conversely, the ministry chaired by Yolanda Díaz ensured that “the vast majority” of workers who find themselves in ERTE situation “have already received the subsidy”.
– What are the key eligibility requirements for ERTE payments for workers affected by emergencies like DANA?
Interview with Labor Expert on ERTE Payments Following DANA
Interviewer: Welcome to Time.news. Today we’re joined by Labor Expert Maria Lopez to discuss the recent developments around the Force Majeure Temporary Employment Regulation (ERTE) payments for workers affected by the DANA that occurred on october 29th. Maria, can you explain what ERTE is and what this situation involves?
Maria Lopez: Thank you for having me. ERTE is a mechanism that allows companies to temporarily suspend employment contracts or reduce working hours due to situations like natural disasters. Following the DANA, a severe weather event, many workers found themselves on ERTE. The recent announcement from the Ministry of Labor allows them to collect their November paycheck early in December, even if their companies submitted requests late.
Interviewer: That’s crucial facts for affected workers. Can you elaborate on the implications of this decision for the 30,417 workers currently under ERTE?
Maria Lopez: Absolutely. This decision is meaningful as it alleviates the financial stress many workers were facing because they initially expected not to be paid until January 10th. Now, those who had their benefits recognized after November 28th can approach their banks to request an advance on their paycheck. It reflects an effort from the government and financial institutions to ensure that no one goes without pay before Christmas.
Interviewer: What prompted the government to change its stance on the payment timeline?
Maria Lopez: The shift came after numerous complaints from ERTE employees. The Self-reliant Secretary of Labor, Antonio Galvañ, urged the government to find solutions for workers waiting for payment. This agreement ensures a more streamlined process, especially considering that 98.1% of the ERTE applications have already been resolved.
Interviewer: That’s notable resolution speed. What should workers know about applying for these advances?
Maria Lopez: Workers should be proactive. If they have their benefits recognized post-November 28th, they should head to their banks to request the advance payment. It’s important for them to keep in mind that, although the majority can now collect early, not every worker in an ERTE situation may need to apply for this advance due to the decoupling between authorized requests and actual participants.
Interviewer: Can you discuss the eligibility criteria for these payments?
Maria Lopez: Certainly. A key aspect of these benefits is that there is no requirement for workers to have contributed for a minimum of 360 days to qualify. This means that even those who have not worked long enough to typically qualify for contributory benefits can access support during this crisis.
Interviewer: With over 15,000 benefits recognized to be collected on December 10th,how does this reflect on the overall efficiency of the system?
Maria Lopez: It showcases the collaborative effort of multiple administrations as they work to respond to crises swiftly. The government’s focus on ensuring timely benefits can help mitigate the financial fallout from such events, though it’s always a complex process during emergencies. The move to advance payments is a positive step in addressing immediate needs.
interviewer: In terms of broader implications, how does this situation affect labor relations moving forward?
Maria Lopez: This event highlights the need for preparedness in labor relations when faced with unforeseen circumstances. It emphasizes the importance of clear interaction between the government, financial bodies, and employers, ensuring that workers are supported in a timely manner. As we’ve seen,the impact of natural disasters on employment can be profound,so creating robust frameworks for future incidents is vital.
Interviewer: Lastly, what practical advice would you give to workers in similar situations?
Maria lopez: I encourage workers to stay informed about their rights and benefits. Regularly check with their employers and relevant labor authorities, and don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance if they encounter delays.Understanding their entitlements, like the advance payment option, is crucial in navigating challenging circumstances.
interviewer: thank you, maria, for your insights on this pressing issue. It’s critical for affected workers to be aware of their rights and the available support.
Maria Lopez: Thank you for the possibility to discuss this important topic.