Cyprus Editorial: Some unions see the light

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The business climate in most of the economy is quite depressing, with few sectors doing well, generating income or even profits, as some are trying hard to maintain staff, let alone hire new people.
The biggest problem of all is the lack of growth and the subsequent absence of any spending desire of most Cypriots. And perhaps in times of crisis, it is commendable that some trade unions in the private sector (not all), have seen the big picture and are willing to meet their employers halfway on issues of pay scales and benefits, as long as jobs are secured.
In the case of five sectoral labour collective agreements that are currently under review or about to be renewed, union reps have agreed to freeze wage hikes and the COLA wage indexation system, while some even warm to the idea of holding off all provident fund contributions for a year.
These are wise decisions as now is not the time to invest in savings, especially at a time when holding off any contributions means that the bread earner of a household will have some more money to take home each month.
Naturally, employers appreciate more the gestures of such workers and their trade unions. However, they should also respect the rights that their employees have earned over the years through loyalty and productivity. No one is suggesting abolishing some benefits such as 13th month bonuses, but delaying some of these payments may be inevitable. Now is not the time for militant union bosses to push through with demands, here and now, that could, in the longer term put the employers in a worse situation financially.
This calls for a collective effort and those who proceed with respect and through dialogue will be rewarded with employee/employer satisfaction once we exit from the current crisis.
All we can say is, “think positive!”