Concentration in Palma against an agreement that could reduce salaries and rights in commerce

PalmMore than a hundred people gathered this Friday on the Born promenade in Palma, called by UGT, to protest against a state agreement in the commerce sector that, according to the union, could mean a reduction in salary and rights for thousands of workers in the Islands.

The agreement, promoted by large commercial chains under the employers' association ANGED and with a preliminary agreement with the unions CCOO and Fetico, would allow some fashion brands to leave the Balearic agreement and move to a state framework with inferior labor conditions.

According to UGT, this measure could affect about 10,000 workers in the Archipelago. The head of the Commerce and Department Stores sector of the union, Belén Córdoba, has warned that the change could involve moving from an average salary of about 21,000 euros per year to just over 18,000, in addition to reductions in salary supplements and labor rights.

The preliminary agreement also foresees changes in the working hours of permanent seasonal workers, with guaranteed minimum working periods of three months and short-notice work calls during the rest of the year. Furthermore, UGT denounces the reduction of bonuses, such as travel allowance or study aid, in addition to changes in holidays and weekly rest periods.

The union also warns that rest hours that until now counted as effective working time should be recovered, which would increase the workload.

The companies that could apply this new framework would be those with a presence in various autonomous communities or large retail outlets, as well as those that exceed certain staff thresholds.

UGT has warned that, if the agreement is finally signed, it does not rule out intensifying mobilizations and even calling a strike.