Minister of Labour and Social Insurance Yiannis Panayiotou has confirmed that the Ministry of Labour is committed to social dialogue on CoLA.
Responding to questions on the sidelines of his presence at the Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights on 22 September, the Minister said that in order to achieve this goal, the constructive contribution of all parties involved in the tripartite social partnership is essential.
"The position of each side in relation to the priorities it sets must be respected. However, in order to reach a mutually acceptable agreement, no one can expect to achieve everything they consider right. Otherwise, if each side insists exclusively on its own positions, this effort will be made much more difficult," he said.
He went on to say that the Government's position is clear and unambiguous on the parameters for modernising the CoLA institution. “The government is not in conflict with either the business world or the trade unions”, he said, noting that the government is working in the public interest, which stipulates that protecting workers from the rising cost of living is essential.
Panayiotou added that he is also called upon to answer hypothetical questions regarding a possible failure to reach an agreement, noting that in such a case “naturally, the government must fulfil its role and, if it deems it necessary, take the actions it deems appropriate”.
He said, however, that this does not hinder or deter the continuation of social dialogue, to which, he reiterated, “we are committed”.
Asked about any planned meetings on the issue this week, the Minister said that “as soon as we have something to announce, you will know about it”.
(Source: CNA)
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