WILLEMSTAD – Civil servants in Curaçao may work fewer hours in the future without a reduction in salary, according to proposals presented this week by the Central Committee of Unions (CCvV).
The plans were outlined during a press conference held on Monday. CCvV chairman Juan Lourens explained that the union federation is working toward the introduction of a 36-hour workweek for government employees, while maintaining salary levels based on a 40-hour workweek. The proposal would effectively reduce working hours without affecting income.
According to Lourens, the initiative forms part of a broader effort to modernize employment conditions within the public sector. The CCvV is also developing proposals for a new salary structure for civil servants, aimed at creating greater clarity and fairness in pay scales.
In addition, the unions are advocating for the structural payment of the so-called bashi premium, a benefit that has long been a point of discussion in labor negotiations. The CCvV argues that making this premium permanent would provide greater income stability for public sector workers.
The proposals are expected to feature prominently in upcoming talks between unions and the government, as discussions continue on reforms to public sector employment conditions and long-term workforce sustainability.