Pepe Álvarez, leader of the Unión General de Trabajadores (UGT), recently embarked on a diplomatic mission to Waterloo, Belgium, to garner support for reducing the mandatory workweek from 40 hours to 37.5 hours. His meeting with Carles Puigdemont, leader of the Catalan political party Junts, was marked by optimism but also the recognition of political hurdles yet to overcome. This meeting was historically significant as it was the first encounter between the two leaders in nearly nine years. Álvarez expressed hope upon leaving the meeting, stating, "Creo que el president Puigdemont no tenía la misma postura cuando entramos que cuando salimos, e intentaremos que esto vaya a más."
During the discussion, which lasted for about one and a half hours at the so-called 'Casa de la República,' Álvarez presented data illustrating how the proposed adjustment would impact approximately 70% of workers. He underscored, “Estamos hablando de una afectación que está en torno al 70% de los trabajadores.” The proposal is part of UGT's broader campaign aimed at improving labor conditions which have come under scrutiny amid the shifting dynamics of the Spanish government.
The backdrop for this meeting is complex. Álvarez acknowledged the pressing political atmosphere, as Junts has multiple demands from the current government of Pedro Sánchez. They are seeking adherences to previous agreements made during the investiture deal, which could help open discussions on additional issues, including tax policies. "Hay una cuestión que tiene que acabar de cerrar el actual Gobierno de España con Junts, que es el cumplimiento de los acuerdos", Álvarez noted, highlighting the intertwined nature of legislative negotiations and political compliance.
Despite the apparent tensions, Álvarez remained positive about the prospects of cooperation, hoping to align Junts' position on working hours closer to the stance taken by the Basque Nationalist Party (PNV). "Nos gustaría que, en lo que hace referencia a la reducción de la jornada de trabajo, de pasar de las 40 horas a 37 horas y media, que pudiéramos tener una reunión ya con más datos que nos permitiera que la posición de Junts pudiera ir en la dirección de la del PNV," he stated, articulately framing the labor issue within the broader political dialogue.
Interestingly, the economic and budgetary discourse surrounding this meeting was not limited to just labor conditions. Álvarez and Puigdemont briefly touched on the broader budgetary discord between the government and Catalonia, where criticism of budget execution has grown. Elisenda Akamany, spokesperson for Esquerra Republicana, resurfaced this anger, noting, "La ejecución presupuestaria en Cataluña es un insulto. No se están cumpliendo los acuerdos," stressing the urgency for real action from the government.
Despite the complex political dance taking place, Álvarez hopes the dialogue with Junts can pave the way for potential breakthroughs concerning work hours. He reflects on the significance of improved communication between unions and political entities, remarking, "Parece que se van a abrir perspectivas de negociación."
Going forward, Álvarez is committed to advancing the campaign for reduced hours, recognizing the many factors at play. He envisions this meeting as just the beginning of what could become productive discussions with Junts and other stakeholders. The success of UGT's initiative may hinge on the government's ability to address larger issues of compliance and negotiation with its political partners, which remain fraught with tension.
The urgent push for reduced working hours continues against the backdrop of Spain's complex political stratum. The outcome of this campaign holds importance not just for labor rights but could also serve as litmus for the Sánchez administration's overall negotiation strategy with Catalan and regional parties.
