Statement of the National Commission of NSZZ "Solidarnosc"

17 Dec 2008: The National Commission of NSZZ "Solidarnosc" is very concerned about the growing social consequences of the economic crisis. Dismissals of workers, reduction of wage growth, limited investments - all these factors will induce increase of social tensions. The National Commission once again emphasizes the fact that protection of the most vulnerable people is the key issue for the NSZZ "Solidarnosc".

It would be most unjust if the biggest burdens of the crisis were put on the workers without savings protected by the state guarantees.

Therefore it is very urgent that the Prime Minister presents on the forum of the Tripartite Commission for Social and Economic Affairs proposals of protective measures planned by the government. We are of the opinion that such actions should include:

1. protection of jobs
2. activities counteracting remuneration gaps
3. protection of lowers earning workers and families with many children
4. further increase of the minimum wage protecting against wage dumping
5. using the EU funds for investment, strengthening of the labour market including the system of vocational training
6. financial support for labour market
7. protection of money accumulated by the citizens in retirement funds

It is also advisable to consider proper changes of the fiscal system of the state already introduced by many states that take into consideration protection of employment, wages and benefits. In the context of the crisis there is a temptation of stopping increase of wages. We emphasise, in accordance to the ILO report, that unjustified reduction of wages may lead to weakening of the internal demand and further deepening of the effects of the crisis.

The National Commission will monitor changes on the labour market in this respect as well as the behaviour of the employers and government.