Background on the Situation
In the first Forum for the Implementation of a 40-hour Weekly Work Schedule, labor union representatives expressed their support for a gradual reduction of work hours, but proposed a timeframe of two years, which is less than the federal government’s proposal.
Who is Tereso Medina?
Tereso Medina, the General Secretary Adjunto of the Confederation of Workers (CTM), is a prominent figure in Mexican labor unions. His organization represents various sectors and industries, advocating for workers’ rights and fair labor practices.
Union Stance on Work Hours Reduction
Medina emphasized that the CTM supports a gradual decrease in work hours, but they do not agree with the federal government’s target of achieving this by 2030. Instead, they propose accomplishing it within two years, along with the establishment of a Saturday premium.
“It would be excellent news for Mexican workers if this gradual application had a two-year timeframe. Each sector needs time to adapt without affecting productivity or employment levels. Furthermore, this topic should be elevated to a constitutional reform and establish two days of rest for every five workdays, which is a universal right of workers worldwide. Additionally, creating a Saturday premium would recognize the extra effort of those who work on Saturdays.”
Medina also highlighted the necessity of flexibilizing the norm by economic sector to avoid negatively impacting job creation.
Debunking Misconceptions
Medina addressed the misconception that reducing work hours would adversely affect small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He urged to debunk this myth, ensuring that SMEs would not be disproportionately affected by the proposed changes.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the union’s stance on reducing work hours? The CTM supports a gradual reduction of work hours, proposing to achieve this goal within two years instead of the federal government’s target of 2030.
- What other demands do unions have? Unions advocate for constitutional reform to establish two days of rest for every five workdays and the creation of a Saturday premium.
- How do unions address concerns about the impact on SMEs? Union representatives, like Tereso Medina, emphasize the need for flexibility by economic sector to prevent negative consequences on job creation and debunk misconceptions that reducing work hours would disproportionately harm SMEs.
