Minimum Wage: Instead of regulating, the government’s decision legitimises the deregulation of labour relations

 

Statement by AKEL C.C. member Vakis Charalambous

1 September 2022, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia

Yesterday’s decision by the government on the National Minimum Wage can be characterised as anything but a reform.

Instead of regulating, the government’s decision legitimises the deregulation of labour relations. Its decision erodes and undermines collective agreements instead of shielding them. It institutionalises cheap labour and leaves a large section of working – especially young people – unprotected, who currently do not enjoy dignified wages and elementary rights.

Not even a pretentious neutral stand has been adopted by the government ruling forces in response to working people’s demands, given that they have once again taken a clear stand in favour of employer’s erroneous practices.

One wonders, are they going to sugar-coat the pill of price hikes with a EUR 16 increase after 11 whole years?

Working people’s expectations and demands cannot be met with the current government, but only by a progressive government that puts their needs at the forefront.