Fight for better wages: chemical workers demand more leisure and surcharges!

Fight for better wages: chemical workers demand more leisure and surcharges!

On April 9, 2025, the second round of negotiations for the collective agreement of around 50,000 employees of the chemical industry in Vienna ended without a result. The Pro-Ge and GPA unions inform that the negotiations on April 23 should be continued. The chief negotiator of Pro-Ge, Josef Schernberger, and his colleague Mario Mayrwöger from the GPA complained that a written offer on the employer is pending. This causes unrest among employees who hope for an agreement.

The unions have formulated clear claims that aim at the needs of employees. This includes a secure wage and salary increase for well-qualified employees and the opportunity to convert money in leisure time. Furthermore, the unions demand an increase in allowances, surcharges and apprenticeship income beyond the inflation rate. Another central point is the easier to access the sixth vacation week. The introduction of a climatic coat for apprentices and the expansion of health preventive measures in the companies are also on the agenda. target = "_ blank"> ots.at reports that the validity period for the new collective agreement begins on May 1st.

conference to inform the works councils

Next Thursday, as part of an Austrian conference, the works councils of the chemical industry will be offered a comprehensive update for the negotiations. The Pro-Ge and GPA unions emphasize the importance of a collective solution that meets the conditions of the employees. The lack of an offer on the part of the employer has burdened the talks and the unions require quick action.

The current rules on the chemical industry in Austria not only include wages, but also regulates other important aspects such as the normal working time of 38 hours a week as well as overtime remuneration, which is set at 50% for regular overtime and 100% for overtime at night. These provisions are part of the collective agreement, which came into force on November 1, 1991 and covers the state and industry. The regulations concern all member companies of the specialist association of the chemical industry as well as all employees subject to the employment law, including commercial and technical apprentices. more details.

apprentices and special remuneration

The following income levels are scheduled for these apprentices from May 1, 2024:

In addition, the regulations for mileage, travel allowance and the Christmas and 14th monthly remuneration are important. From May 1, 2024 to 15,000 km, the mileage is € 0.376 and for more than € 0.354. There are also defined day and night money for business trips that are intended to improve the financial framework for employees.

The upcoming discussions will be crucial for future conditions in the chemical industry. The unions are determined to represent the interests of the employees and require a fair negotiation to find common solutions.