Romanian Labor Min, Unions, Employers Discuss Social Agreement

Romanian labor minister Marian Sarbu said Wednesday, before talks with unions and employers, that the representatives of the Executive wish to conclude a four-year social agreement with the social partners, as such an agreement is necessary for Romania.

The meeting at the Ministry of Labor will also be attended by finance minister Gheorghe Pogea, who said he is "completely open to social dialogue."

"We are at the beginning of the mandate and we need to show citizens that things are about to return to normal. Given the magnitude of the crisis, its form and dynamics, problems can only be solved through a common platform of solutions," Pogea said.
 
The meeting will also be attended by the interior minister Gabriel Oprea, as well as by economy minister Adriean Videanu.
 
Before the talks at the Ministry of Labor, union and employer representatives met at the Economic and Social Council to analyze the issues to be presented in the meeting with government officials.
 
"Cartel Alfa" union president Bogdan Hossu said the meeting with the labor minister will mainly focus on the program of measures against the crisis, which should be reflected in the draft budget.
 
The union leader added there is an agreement between unions and employers to make the anti-crisis program a priority topic in talks with the minister.

Mediafax