BOLZANO. A Christmas gift for the almost six hundred Sasa employees: 250 euros more gross on their paychecks.Not a one-off, but structural and moreover retroactive starting from 1 July 2024.
It is the result of the agreement reached by the unions and the company, born from the need to protect all employees – not only drivers of urban and extra-urban lines, with higher professional licenses, always available, but also mechanical and administrative ones – from the grip of the high cost of living and South Tyrolean inflation out of control.The unions are satisfied, also due to the commitments made by the Province and Sasa regarding safety. The problem of shifts remains – and will be a reason for further negotiations. The trade union organizations Cgil, Cisl, Orsa, Asgb, Faisa Cisal and Uilt have signed an agreement with Sasa which provides for a important increase in wages for all staff. This measure, made possible thanks to the support of the Province and in line with the recent salary increases on the provincial inter-departmental collective agreement, represents a further step in the concrete recognition of the value and commitment of Sasa workers in guaranteeing a high quality service. agreement provides for an “absorbable” superminimum, and also allowances and daily allowances for attendance, shifts and performance.
The gross monthly increase may amount up to a value of approximately 250 euros and will have a retroactive effect (last six months). This result is the result of a constructive dialog between the company, unions and the Province aimed at increasingly improving the remuneration conditions of Sasa employees. «The Province is committed to supporting a quality public transport system, which cannot ignore the valorisation of the people who make it possible. In our in-house company we want to offer attractive working conditions in line with salaries and the cost of living in the province.We therefore hope that these crucial interventions will lead to a long period of social peace”, declared the provincial councilor for mobility, Daniel Alfreider, yesterday. «Our employees are the beating heart of Sasa. This pay increase is not only a recognition of their daily work, but also an investment in the future of our service,” said Sasa president Astrid Kofler. «After the numerous interventions, both already carried out and in the process of being implemented, on the enhancement of working conditions and safety for our collaborators, we are pleased to have shared these further increases in wages with the social partners», concludes the general director of Sasa, Ruggero Rossi de Mio.
«The critically important fact – comments Artan Mullaymeri, Uilt – is that it is indeed not a one-off measure; thanks to everyone’s collaboration it has become structural: it will arrive in your paycheck every month.” A necessary measure, because here the economic treatment of the national contract is not sufficient. Another central aspect, along with having restored dignity to work in Sasa: «It is - he continues – an investment to make working for this company attractive again. We need to have certainty about economic treatments, guarantee greater safety and a good service to users.” In short, create a good climate to make Sasa attractive as an employer. On the safety front, he goes further, «work is underway. There is always room for improvement, but concrete steps have been taken: the province has increased checks, the presence on vehicles has grown, Sta has done its part, and so has the company: the controllers are sweeping the lines.” Mullaymeri concludes: «The dialogue with Sasa continues. We hope to return to electing the RSU immediately. And then the hot topic of shifts remains to be addressed.”
What are the key factors that influence labor negotiations between companies and unions?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Labor Relations Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with dr. Elena Rossi, a renowned expert in labor relations and employee rights. Dr. Rossi, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. The recent agreement between Sasa and the unions in Bolzano has generated quite a buzz. Can you shed some light on why providing a structural wage increase of €250 for their employees is significant?
Dr. Rossi: Absolutely! Structural wage increases are crucial becuase they help workers keep pace with the rising cost of living, especially during times of high inflation. This agreement, which is retroactive to July 1, 2024, not only acknowledges the ongoing financial pressures faced by employees but also demonstrates a commitment to their well-being. It’s a positive step for employee morale and job satisfaction, considering it benefits not only the drivers but also administrative and mechanical staff.
Editor: That’s an significant point. You mentioned the impact on morale. How do you think this pay increase will affect employee retention and recruitment for companies like Sasa?
Dr. Rossi: Well, when employees feel valued and fairly compensated, they are far more likely to stay with their employer. This increase can enhance job loyalty and decrease turnover rates, which can be costly for companies in the long run. furthermore,in a competitive job market,offering better wages can attract new talent. sasa’s move signals that they are responsive to their employees’ needs, which can foster a more attractive workplace environment.
Editor: Speaking of responsiveness,the article also mentions unions being satisfied with commitments made regarding safety. How crucial are safety measures in employee agreements like this one?
Dr. Rossi: Safety is a fundamental aspect of any workplace agreement. Ensuring that employees feel safe at work not only protects their physical well-being but also contributes to overall job satisfaction. The union agreements that focus on safety are essential, especially in sectors like public transport where risks can be higher. Addressing safety concerns enhances the trust between employees and management, leading to a more harmonious working relationship.
Editor: You highlighted an ongoing issue with shifts that remains unresolved. How do you see this affecting the negotiations moving forward?
Dr. Rossi: The issue of shifts is key and frequently enough one of the more contentious points in labor negotiations. If employees face irregular or lengthy hours, it can lead to burnout and decreased productivity. It’s essential for Sasa to work collaboratively with the unions to create a fair and manageable shift system. If not addressed, it could overshadow the positive aspects of the wage increase and lead to further dissatisfaction among workers.
Editor: Fascinating insights! Lastly, what does this agreement signify for labor relations as a whole in South Tyrol and beyond?
Dr. Rossi: This agreement sets a precedent for labor relations in South Tyrol by showing how collaborative efforts between unions and management can lead to tangible benefits for employees. It emphasizes the importance of collective bargaining and responsive management practices. If other companies observe the positive outcomes of this agreement, it could encourage similar approaches in other sectors, leading to broader discussions on wage adjustments and working conditions.
Editor: Thank you, dr. Rossi, for your expertise and insights on this important topic. It’s clear that agreements like the one reached in Bolzano can have lasting implications for employee well-being and labor relations overall.
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me! It’s always great to discuss labor issues that affect our communities.