Minister of Labour blames unions for refusing to negotiate changes

Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, Jaromír Drábek, said the demonstration by the unions was a direct result of their refusal to negotiate any changes. He said they stuck to their position that there was no need to change the status quo and also accused them of distorting the government’s saving plans. Mr. Drábek insisted that the 10 percent cut in state wage costs was a fundamental pillar of the government programme. Prime Minister Petr Nečas said the government would not be diverted from that overall target but was prepared to negotiate with the unions on details of the cost cutting.

Author: Chris Johnstone