Croatian Employers Association organized a workshop in Zagreb on 1 April 2014.
The employers presented to their social partners, i.e. trade unions some concrete measures already submitted to the Ministry of Economy as a response to the government document entitled Industrial Policy 2014-2020.
The members of the Social Council for the textile, footwear and leather sector, consisting of trade union representatives, representatives of Croatian Employers’ Association (HUP), Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Entrepreneurship and Crafts and Ministry of Labour and Pension System were invited to the workshop. .
Nataša Novaković, HUP, made a chronological presentation of social dialogue in the sector and at the time of Croatia’s accession to the European Union. She also mentioned some main milestones in the adoption of the new Labour Act.
Ana Falak, HUP, presented the characteristics of sectoral social dialogue and expressed her appreciation of excellent cooperation between employers and trade unions in the first year of their operation.
Tomislav Pokaz, head of department for industrial competiveness at the Ministry of Economy pointed out the need for continuous communication and social dialogue as the only proper conflict resolution method. He stressed his support for social partners in their intention to inform the government about such constructive approach, in particular regarding the resolution of the issues related to the preservation of jobs in times of economic crisis.
The textile, footwear and leather industry has huge potential in Croatia, including the potential for job creation. According to the assessment of the workshop participants, labour costs should be reduced to this end primarily by lowering taxes and contributions.
The trade unions and employers agreed at the workshop to send a letter to the Government of the Republic of Croatia calling for closer cooperation within the sectoral Social Council.
Anže Hiršl, ZDS, presented the European framework agreements at the workshop and Tatjana Pajnkihar, MSc., ZDS, held a lecture on collective bargaining skills.
With financial support from the European Union.