The Ministry of Public Function and unions are set to start negotiations on the 2024 public employment offer on Thursday. Representatives from civil servants are demanding a massive offer that will enable them to create “net employment,” which is not yet clear what it means. However, the ministry has promised that the offer will be historic.
The Independent Trade Union and Civil Servants Central (CSIF) have been pushing for a massive public job offer to improve public services, address upcoming retirements, and eliminate the replacement rate. Additionally, they are calling for expedited hiring processes to fill thousands of unfilled positions that have accumulated since 2020. On the other hand, UGT demands that the path set in 2022 and 2023 continue, particularly focusing on job creation and rejuvenation of the workforce.
Unfortunately, negotiations are starting without a previously agreed upon 2% salary increase for officials due to delays in budget approvals. The government has promised retroactive payments for any delays that may occur. In response to the delay, the government stated that it would have retroactive effects and there could be an additional 0.5% increase depending on inflation. This increase would mean that civil servant salaries have increased by almost 10% in three years if approved.
The negotiation process is expected to address these challenges and work towards meeting the demands of unions for a strong public employment offer in 2024.
