Thousands of metalworkers went on
strike Wednesday protesting against the proposal by Italian
federation of metalworking companies Federmeccanica for the
renewal of their national contract, which unions say give pay
rises to only 5% of workers, those who are currently under the
regulated minimum.
Maurizio Landini, leader of the FIOM metalworkers union,
said the national contract is a "clear right" and added that
"this is the time for the country to relaunch the economy".
"Pay rises have to be given to all workers, and this for us
is an indispensable point," Landini said.
"I don't think (Federmeccanica) wants to assume the
responsibility for a clash, of which the country has no need
right now".
Meanwhile, the government is examining an urgent request
for making national contract pay raises tax-free.
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