Retail workers are rallying this Thursday near the Assembly of the Republic, as lawmakers debate a citizen-initiated bill proposing early closures by 10 PM and shutdowns on Sundays and holidays. The protest, organized by the Union of Workers of Commerce, Offices, and Services of Portugal (CESP), will see the presence of the CGTP-IN's general secretary, with demands for extra pay on Sundays and improved working conditions.
Two key proposals are under discussion: a petition from citizens advocating for mall workers to finish by 10 PM instead of midnight and not work on Sundays, and a Left Bloc bill aiming to limit shopping center operations, excluding cinemas and restaurants.
Márcia Barbosa of CESP, leading the petition, argues this move protects workers' rights, offering them more time for family and leisure, potentially making the retail sector more appealing amidst current labor shortages.
Contrastingly, the Portuguese Association of Shopping Centers, citing a UNICRE study, warns of significant sales losses, noting Sundays are the second busiest shopping day, contributing to 39% of mall revenues. They claim such changes could endanger 16,000 jobs and boost international online shopping, harming the national economy.
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