The conversation delved into critical topics such as the crisis in the construction sector, pension system concerns, and the evolving landscape of the workforce — a prelude to the forthcoming social elections slated for 12 March.
On Saturday afternoon, the presidents of the Independent Luxembourg Trade Union Confederation (OGBL) and the Luxembourg Confederation of Christian Trade Unions (LCGB) joined our colleagues from RTL Radio for a discussion on the upcoming social elections.
Nora Back, President of the OGBL, and Patrick Dury, President of the LCGB, offered their insights as guests on the programme.
Union membership numbers dwindling
Both trade union leaders expressed a shared commitment to galvanise greater participation in the upcoming company and Chamber of Employees elections. Dury underscored the imperative of reengaging employees in union activities, given the notable decline in union membership rates.
Nora Back emphasised the pivotal role of the Chamber of Employees, advocating for heightened visibility to reinforce its significance within the social framework.
Neither leader conceded that employees held a dominant position in the current labour market landscape. Back cautioned against anticipated challenges posed by the conservative-neoliberal government agenda, emphasising its prioritisation of economic interests.
Targeted assistance instead of blanket support
Back highlighted the potential for conflicts in various sectors, stating that strikes had been necessary. The OGBL also had to defended workers in other ways in recent times and decided to "deliberately not support" the "wage indexation manipulation" and the tripartite negotiations, Back said.
In contrast, Dury highlighted the constructive outcomes of past tripartite dialogues in resolving major crises.
Both trade unions offer conditional support for government measures aimed at addressing the construction crisis. However, the OGBL advocates for targeted assistance, cautioning against blanket support for all companies. Responding to similar criticism from former Minister of the Economy Franz Fayot of the Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party (LSAP), Dury suggested that Fayot should have addressed the crisis during his tenure.
LCGB President warns of 'destruction of the pension system'
Expressing shared concerns about proposed changes to the pension system, the country's two largest trade unions voiced strong objections. LCGB President criticised the changes the government has hinted at as tantamount to "the destruction of the pension system," also critiquing the communication style of Martine Deprez, the new Minister from the Christian Social People's Party (CSV), as "arrogant" and "amateurish."
Both trade unions firmly oppose private supplementary pension schemes.
OGBL President Nora Back highlighted concerns about potential inequalities among pensioners and between pensioners and active workers, cautioning against the creation of a two-tier society and emphasising the need to preserve the integrity of the existing system.
Back noted that past pessimistic projections had not materialised, citing the existence of a "comfortable reserve." However, she acknowledged the possibility of addressing contribution increases if necessary.
Both the OGBL and the LCGB are highly sceptical regarding the increasing prominence of artificial intelligence in the workforce.
