Government Dismisses Responsibility for Wage Disputes
The Hospitality Workers’ Union (Sindicato da Hotelaria) in Madeira has accused the regional government of misleading workers by claiming it cannot intervene in labor disputes.
Earlier this week, the union organized a protest outside Quinta Vigia, the seat of the regional government, to demand administrative action on stalled wage negotiations.
While the government publicly stated that it cannot intervene because it is in a caretaker role, the union insists that existing labor laws allow such actions.
Unfortunately, when we decided to go to Quinta Vigia and submit an official letter asking for the government’s administrative intervention regarding the collective labor contract and the 2024 wage table, the President of the Regional Government dismissed his responsibilities. He claimed that, due to being in a caretaker administration, he could not intervene administratively.
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There was no written response. The government only addressed this publicly in the news. When the government claims to be in a caretaker role, it is misleading the workers. It is unacceptable when a government official lies because it destroys trust. Even in a caretaker role, it is possible to act.
Adolfo Freitas, Union President, RTP Madeira
No Official Response to Workers' Demands
Despite repeated efforts, the government has not provided a written response to the union’s request. Instead, its public statements have downplayed its ability to take action, a stance that union leaders call deceptive. According to the union, past administrations have intervened in similar disputes, making the current government’s refusal even more frustrating for workers.
Long-Term Employees Still Earning Minimum Wage
Workers say that wages in the hospitality sector remain unacceptably low. Many employees with 25 to 30 years of experience continue to earn only the minimum wage, despite years of service. The union argues that this situation reflects a failure by both the government and employers to ensure fair pay, leaving dedicated workers struggling to make ends meet.
Union Plans Worker Assemblies to Decide Next Actions
To address these issues, the union has scheduled over 20 worker gatherings between March 11 and March 20 at various hotels. These gatherings will allow workers to voice their concerns and help shape the next steps in their fight for fair wages. The union has not ruled out further protests or strikes, depending on the outcomes of these discussions.
It is unacceptable that, while tourism profits grow, the workers who sustain this industry continue to receive low wages and face poor conditions. Labor dignity cannot be forgotten in the name of profit.
Mõnica Freitas, PAN Madeira, on Diário de Notícias da Madeira
Informing Tourists About Worker Conditions
In addition to worker meetings, the union plans to distribute informational leaflets to tourists at hotels and airports during the Easter travel season. Previous efforts to inform visitors about low wages in the sector have revealed that many tourists are shocked by the conditions faced by workers.
Employers Prefer Low-Paid Migrant Workers
While employers claim there is a labor shortage, the union argues that businesses prefer to hire migrant workers at lower wages instead of offering better salaries to local employees. Many of these workers, particularly those from Portuguese-speaking countries such as Brazil, Cape Verde, and Mozambique, are hesitant to join the union due to fears of contract non-renewal. However, some have started legal proceedings to secure permanent employment.
As the dispute continues, workers and the union remain determined to push for wage increases and government action. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the next phase of their struggle.
Support them in their struggle, which is a struggle for Madeira!
Source: RTP Madeira
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