Yolanda Díaz and Carlos Cuerpo Scheduled to Discuss Workweek Reduction
The ongoing dialogue regarding the reduction of the workweek in Spain is set to intensify this afternoon as Yolanda Díaz, the Minister of Labor and Second Vice President, meets with Carlos Cuerpo, the Minister of Economy. This meeting follows Díaz's call for urgent action concerning the agreement with labor unions aimed at decreasing the workweek to 37.5 hours by 2025.
Sources within the ministries of Labor and Economy have confirmed this meeting amid rising tensions between the two departments at the beginning of the year. Díaz has accused the Ministry of Economy of obstructing the expedited processing of the legislation necessary for implementing the reduction of working hours, which is crucial for ensuring that the initiative takes effect in 2025, as previously promised by the coalition government.
In response, Cuerpo's department has expressed support for the proposed reduction of the workweek, emphasizing it as a priority concern. However, they clarified that the issue will be discussed through standard procedures at the Economic Affairs Committee before being presented to the Council of Ministers.
Díaz has requested this meeting to clarify the reasons behind the lack of urgent processing for the workweek reduction proposal. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Economy maintains that Cuerpo is open to holding as many discussions as necessary to achieve this shared goal. They underscore the importance of ensuring all necessary guarantees are in place to make this initiative a reality as soon as possible.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Labor insists that the agreement made with labor unions should be processed without any amendments. Díaz has raised concerns that the Economy Ministry intends to alter the agreement regarding the implications of the workweek reduction on part-time contracts, which disproportionately affects female workers. This issue has been identified as a critical point of contention for the Vice President.
According to sources from the second vice presidency, respect for social dialogue outcomes is essential in a democratic society, as mandated by the International Labour Organization, of which Spain is a member. They reiterated that the workweek reduction remains a commitment for the government, and efforts are being made to implement it effectively and promptly.
Earlier today, Díaz expressed confidence that an agreement will be reached with her cabinet colleague. She stated that the discussions would focus on respecting the social dialogue agreements formed in the country. The clear objective articulated by the coalition government is to establish the reduction of working hours across all Spanish companies by 2025.
For this to happen, the legislation must be expedited, taking into account the time required for processing a draft law. Díaz has emphasized the need for urgency in this matter, especially given the timelines involved in legislative procedures. She has expressed hope that all parties involved will adhere to the government agreement and fulfill the commitments made by the Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez.
