(ANSA) - TRIESTE, 12 MAR - The ETUC, European Trade Union Confederation, is calling for paid sick leave for all workers across Europe as the coronavirus exposes the danger to public health posed by the cuts made to sick pay by member states.

"Millions of workers have lost out sick pay since the 2008 financial crisis, which is forcing them to go to work when they're ill", ETUC General Secretary Luca Visentini said quoting European Commission figures. Data shows the majority of member states have reduced spending on sickness benefits. The biggest cuts came in countries hit hardest by austerity: Greece (down 7.2% per year), Spain (down 2.3%), Cyprus (down 1.9%), Ireland (down 0.9%) and Italy (down 0.5%).

The cuts to sick pay across Europe means that more people go to work when they are ill because they can't afford to (eliminare take) lose income or risk losing their job. That presents a risk to public health, particularly in the context of the coronavirus outbreak. "It shouldn't have taken a global pandemic to show that's a bad idea, but the EU and all member states now need to ensure that all workers have the right to paid sick leave and free health care", Visentini added- The ETUC's executive has adopted a resolution calling on the European Commission and national governments to ensure all workers, including the self-employed and those in precarious employment, can take leave without fear of losing their jobs or income. The executive also urged the EC to make sure that all workers who lose their income during quarantine, are suspended or made redundant will receive financial support. The ETUC has also asked to increase public investment to support universal health services and health care workers, to soften fiscal rules and release EU funds to help the hardest-hit countries, including Italy. (ANSA).