May 29, 2024
Norway's salmon industry negotiations stall
Negotiations between Norway's salmon companies and unions representing industry workers have stalled, Fish Farmer reported.
Talks aimed at securing a new aquaculture deal covering pay, conditions, and general issues, but broke down after just two days, prompting the move to mediation.
Seafood Norway, the employer organisation, issued a statement indicating that the parties were significantly far apart, leading to a breach in negotiations. Despite this, unions are believed to be some way from taking industrial action.
The breakdown stems from disagreements on several central points and issues of principle, particularly concerning the extent of local negotiations and local flexibility. Seafood Norway expressed hope that a solution could be reached during mediation.
The aquaculture agreement in question involves the Norwegian Confederation of Trade Unions and Seafood Norway, representing the employers. The agreement covers over 3,000 Federation members, including those involved in the farming of fish and shellfish and staff working at refrigeration plants and marine and land facilities.
Unions are demanding a pay increase, arguing that their members deserve a solid raise considering the sharply rising cost of living in Norway. They are also seeking other improvements. On the other hand, employers are expected to argue that their own costs have risen significantly, and that the industry is facing a much higher tax burden.
- Fish Farmer
