On Thursday afternoon, both the LCGB and OGBL unions met with the Federation of Cleaning Companies to negotiate once more. Prior to the meeting, both unions and employees in the sector staged a protest picket line to argue for better working conditions.
The sector, which employs more than 11,000 people in Luxembourg, has been seeking better conditions for some time now. Gorek Pereira Fernandes, who has worked as a cleaner for more than 15 years, told RTL the pandemic had highlighted the importance of the sector and argued that cleaners were essential frontline workers. She said they could not accept the lack of recognition by employers, as well as their unwillingness to enter discussions with the unions to improve the sector.
The Federation says they have suffered greatly due to the coronavirus crisis, but this is not considered a valid excuse, said Pereira Fernandes. The pandemic has meant more staff are required than ever before, with many cleaners feeling the pressure following the increasing pace of work. Pereira Fernandes was pleased with the protest turnout, but said more involvement would be appreciated to support the employees and their demands.
The unions began negotiations with 19 demands, 17 of which have now been dropped. However, there are two points which they are not prepared to abandon, according to Bento Pires of the LCGB. These consist of a one-off €500 premium for all staff, and two days off a week. He said this should be achievable through negotiations.
Both unions later described Thursday’s meeting as a positive exchange, claiming the Federation was ready to reach an agreement but was still undertaking consultations. Both parties will meet again at the end of the month. The Federation did not comment.
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