Díaz and Cuerpo Meet to Discuss Reduction of Working Hours Amidst Political Tensions
The recent meeting between Spain's Second Vice President Yolanda Díaz and Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo aimed at resolving ongoing disputes regarding a proposed reduction in the standard working week to 37.5 hours ended without concrete solutions, although both parties expressed a commitment to further negotiations.
On Monday, at the behest of Díaz, a private session was arranged between the Minister of Labor and the Minister of Economy to address their significant differences concerning the processing of this labor measure. The initial request for the meeting was made to clarify the reasons behind the delays in advancing this proposal within the Council of Ministers.
Despite the hopes for a productive outcome, the discussions lasted just over an hour and indicated that the path toward agreement remains fraught with challenges. A major concern has emerged regarding potential obstruction by the Ministry of Economy, which has been vehemently denied by Cuerpo's office.
In light of the absence of a concrete agreement, informed sources revealed that both parties have expressed a willingness to continue discussions in order to ensure that the measure—initially agreed upon by the PSOE and Sumar—can be implemented by 2025. The measure, which aims to reduce the standard work week from 40 hours to 37.5 hours, comes amid broader discussions that have also encompassed housing policies, further complicating the agenda.
Pedro Sánchez, the Prime Minister, had appointed this particular day for his cabinet to unveil a range of measures concerning housing, underscoring the competing priorities within the government. In response to the discussions, the Ministry of Economy reiterated its readiness to engage in frequent meetings to achieve the shared objective of reducing working hours, emphasizing the need for ‘necessary guarantees’ to facilitate swift implementation.
Conversely, the Ministry of Labor continues to press for urgency in meeting established deadlines. They argue that their timelines conflict with those of the Ministry of Economy, which appears less inclined towards an expedited approach.
In summary, while there is an expressed priority on both sides to endorse a reduction in working hours, the differing strategies to realize this objective reveal an ongoing divide within Ministerial circles. As discussions proceed, the urgency to map a satisfying resolution remains paramount, not only for the government but also for unions and employers who are directly affected by these legislative changes.
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