In an interview with RTP News, Labor Minister Maria do Rosário Palma Ramalho insisted that this is the right time for labor reform and that the legislation could improve workers' rights and guarantees.
"Trade union confederations don't vocalize this part, but in fact there are a number of workers' rights that are strengthened in this reform," stated the minister, citing parental leave as an example, along with provisions for youth and students.
Maria do Rosário Palma Ramalho described the reaction to the reform announcement as 'superficial'. "Labor matters are always subjects of great passion," she noted.
The minister also emphasized that UGT 'should differentiate itself from CGTP' because the latter made clear from the start 'that it did not want to negotiate'.
Maria do Rosário Palma Ramalho criticized UGT's stance but expressed belief that an agreement with social partners is still possible.
"From UGT's side, I consider it premature to make this announcement [of a general strike] now because we are sitting at the table negotiating," she stated.
Despite some negotiating room, the minister affirmed that the Government is not willing to withdraw the entire labor proposal and intends to 'maintain the main lines'.
When questioned about the need for the new labor package, the minister argued that structural reforms should be made when the labor market is robust and free from economic shocks.
The Government continues private meetings with social partners in the coming weeks. The social consultation meeting is scheduled for December 10th, the day before the general strike announced by CGTP and UGT.
"It is at times like these that we have time to reflect on the need to adapt the labor market, and also labor legislation, to the challenges of the 21st century, of work in the digital era," she emphasized.
According to the Minister of Labor and Social Security, current labor legislation does not keep pace with the evolution of the labor market.
"We have very serious structural problems that arise, precisely, among other factors, from the fact that our legislation does not keep up with the economy and does not promote productivity. It's based on a work model from the 20th century, even from the 19th century," criticized the minister.
The minister pointed to low productivity levels in the country '28 percent below the European average', wage levels '35 percent below the European average', and a significant gender pay gap above 14 percent.
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