The representatives of Luxembourg’s industry opposed discussions held amongst political parties regarding a reduction in working hours, with the legislative elections looming on the horizon.
Fedil believes that “effective” working time should see an overall increase, without increasing the legal working time of 40 hours per week. The federation said in this period of labour shortages, politicians should stop promoting “working less”, for example, through a reduction of legal working hours, and called the LSAP and OGBL proposals on the topic “irresponsible”.
Representatives also called for more training for professions requiring more staff, as well as more control over sick leave and verification of sick certificates.
Industry representatives also warned that a re-industrialisation of the European Union, desired by politicians, could not be achieved through targets alone. Fedil recommended challenging the status quo through amending Luxembourg’s procedures for setting up a business, for example.
The federation also said that energy policies should be challenged, recommending the European Union set uniform measures on energy prices instead of taking unilateral action in each member state.
Despite this, the federation welcomed the agreement reached at the Tripartite summit on 3 March, stating that curbing energy prices would go some way towards curbing inflation. The compensation of a potential third index later this year would offer predictability for businesses, while the overall increase in net income would help to make the Grand Duchy more attractive for young talent.
