Federal Minister of Labour David Clarinval (MR) has urged a pragmatic approach to winding down the early retirement scheme (SWT/RCC).
In the Social Affairs Committee on Tuesday, Clarinval responded to questions about the government’s position on an agreement reached earlier this month by the Group of 10, a consultation body of trade unions and employers.
The social partners requested that the legal certainty of existing collective agreements be respected until 30 June, allowing SWT/RCC to continue until then. The Employers’ Organisation (VBO) estimated that around 1,000 people could still use the scheme, but Clarinval could not confirm this figure.
"We recognise the importance of social dialogue," said the MR Deputy Prime Minister. "We are considering how to respond to the request, but we must act pragmatically and responsibly to ensure a balanced transition that protects workers and maintains the viability of social systems."
Open VLD MP Steven Coenegrachts warned that Clarinval’s pragmatism risks undermining one of the key points of the coalition agreement. N-VA faction leader Axel Ronsse reiterated that the coalition agreement is "sacred," insisting that SWT/RCC intake must end. "We want respect for the coalition agreement," he asserted.
Meanwhile, Vooruit MP Anja Vanrobaeys pointed out that the coalition agreement also prioritises strong social consultation. She noted that even VBO head Pieter Timmermans has called for respecting the agreement and warned that the current approach may be unconstitutional.
