Monti faces clash with unions over reform

The technocratic Italian government under was preparing in March 2012 to launch labour market reforms. Article discusses the prospect of getting them adopted against the opposition of some leading trade union organisations.

Mr Monti had tough talks with unions on the proposed labour law reform in what was seen as a test of his ability to rescue the economy.

Italy’s largest trade union federation CGIL called a one-day national strike (without fixing a specific date)as a first response to Mr Monti’s decision to forge ahead with the labour market reforms.

The trade unions fiercely defended a rule (Article 18 of the Labour Statute) which protected workers in larger companies from being sacked.

EUObserver, 30.3.12: Monti’s lack of popular mandate could come back with a vengeance http://euobserver.com/7/115751

ESO: Background information: Monti unveils liberalisation plans http://www.europeansources.info/record/monti-unveils-liberalisation-plans/

BBC News, 20.3.12: Monti meets unions in bid to reform Italian labour law http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-17449088

ESO: Background information: Monti tackles Italy unions over labour reforms http://www.europeansources.info/record/monti-tackles-italy-unions-over-labour-reforms/

Corriere della Sera, 21.3.12: CGIL’s No to Changes in Employment Regulations http://www.corriere.it/english/12_marzo_21/cgil_37d741e6-7359-11e1-85e3-e872b0baf870.shtml

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