Union Seeks 15% Salary Increase, a Minimum of €150 More Per Worker
The Madeira Hotel Workers’ Union has submitted its official proposals for 2025 to the national federation, seeking a 15% pay increase across the hospitality sector. The plan includes a minimum rise of €150 per worker, according to information released on Thursday by RTP Madeira.
The union also calls for a similar 15 percent rise in other financial benefits. Its leaders say that these demands reflect both the cost of living and the success of the region’s tourism industry.
Proposal Includes 35-Hour Workweek and 25 Vacation Days for All Employees
Alongside pay increases, the union is asking for a reduction in the weekly working hours to 35 and an extension of annual vacation time to 25 days for every hotel employee.
Union representatives argue that improving conditions will help attract and retain staff in a sector that has been under pressure from labor shortages. “Workers have carried the tourism recovery,” said a union spokesperson. “It is only fair that they also benefit from it.”
Tourism in Madeira Grew by Over 750,000 Overnight Stays Between January and August
Union officials point to strong tourism numbers as evidence that the hotel industry can afford higher wages. From January to August 2025, Madeira recorded more than 750,000 additional overnight stays compared to the same period in 2024 — an increase of roughly 8 percent, according to regional statistics.
The growth was recorded only in hotel units, showing that the main sector driving Madeira’s economy continues to expand steadily.
Labor Law Changes Raise Fears Over Worker Protections Ahead of November 8 March
The union also expressed concern about proposed government changes to Portugal’s labor law. Under the new draft, in cases of unfair dismissal, employers — rather than workers — would decide whether to reinstate the employee or pay compensation.
This new labor code is an affront to workers," said António Gouveia, member of the USAM leadership and of the General Confederation of the Portuguese Workers Intersindical (CGTP), considering that the country is "regressing in labor rights" and "heading towards tremendous slavery.
Union leaders fear this could weaken workers’ rights. “If a worker is dismissed, it should be their choice whether to return or take compensation,” one representative told RTP Madeira.
In response, the union has scheduled a public march in Funchal on November 8 to protest both the government’s proposed legislation and to defend its demands for better wages and conditions.
Source: RTP Madeira
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