Thousands March for Workers' Rights in Lisbon: CGTP Demands 15% Salary Increase

Thousands Rally for Workers' Rights

On Thursday afternoon, thousands of people gathered in Lisbon for a demonstration organized by CGTP-IN to commemorate International Workers' Day. The parade began at Martim Moniz and concluded at Alameda D. Afonso Henriques. At the end of the march, amidst a gathering at the Luminosa Fountain Gardens, the union's secretary-general emphasized the demand for a 15% salary increase, with a minimum of 150 euros for all workers, as well as the abolition of the hours bank.

"In our country, the lives of workers, youth, retirees, and the general population have become increasingly difficult. The challenges to secure a decent life are growing, with salaries and pensions insufficient to cover costs for housing, food, and essential services, along with severe limitations in access to health, education, and housing," stated Tiago Oliveira.

He further warned of the precariousness affecting the workforce, noting that 1.2 million workers in Portugal are in precarious conditions. "We will fight against this in the streets, demanding a different policy, and also within every company and workplace, ensuring that every permanent job corresponds to a real employment relationship," he stressed.

Political Parties Demand Better Salaries

Various left-wing parties also called for better salaries during the May 1st demonstration. Mariana Mortágua, the BE coordinator, pointed out that there is still much to achieve regarding labor rights, highlighting the prevalence of low, precarious salaries and work situations without rights or conditions.

Paulo Raimundo, secretary-general of the PCP, underscored the importance of participating in the protest to strengthen and fight for workers' rights, calling for "better lives, higher salaries, more pensions, less precariousness, and the right to housing and health". Rui Tavares, spokesperson for Livre, remarked that May 1st represents the past, present, and future, emphasizing the protection that comes from union membership.

Inês de Sousa Real, spokesperson for PAN, reminded attendees of the ongoing precariousness in the country, with rising living costs and difficulties in accessing housing, health, and education. She advocated for a national plan focused on the green economy.

UGT Advocates for Compliance with Agreements

The UGT also celebrated May 1st, asserting that political instability should not derail the central union's goals. From the stage at the National Sports Center of Jamor, the secretary-general insisted that the next government must honor the agreements signed in social dialogue, regardless of the changing political landscape due to upcoming legislative elections.

Mário Mourão emphasized that the UGT will not accept any changes that undermine social progress or devalue the lives of workers. He also highlighted the need to address the issue of 40% of unemployed individuals living in poverty.

Porto's Message: "May is in the Streets"

In Porto, thousands filled Avenida dos Aliados to proclaim that "May is in the streets and the fight continues". On a sunny day, older individuals made up the majority of the crowd. Many carried signs demanding better salaries, improved working conditions, and affordable housing. The atmosphere was festive, with banners and makeshift bars contributing to the celebration of workers.

José Mendes, a 74-year-old participant, recalled his first May Day march in 1974, shortly after the April 25th Revolution, feeling the essence of freedom for the first time. Another participant, Maria dos Anjos, 69, shared her enthusiasm for the event, emphasizing the importance of the struggle against precariousness and housing issues for future generations.