Power utility PPC and its main union group Genop have begun preliminary talks on a new collective labor agreement under the shadow of financial consequences prompted by the ongoing pandemic, a situation likely to weigh down on union expectations and demands.

Though the current deal, implemented in June, 2018, expires in May, 2021, the two sides agreed to start discussions now in order to determine the issues that will need to be negotiated for the establishment of a new agreement.

Both sides are hoping for a swift conclusion, possibly between March and April, sources informed.

The union group has so far indicated it will not push its demands to extremes, the sources added.

At this early stage, Genop appears determined to maintain favorable older  revisions incorporated into preceding collective labor agreements, such as a daily food allowance of 4 euros per employee.

The union group is also expected to demand a three-year duration for the new collective labor agreement, as was agreed to for the existing deal expiring next May.

Genop may also seek improved salaries for lower-income earners, especially underpaid workers at higher-risk posts, including transmission tower climbers.

PPC’s administration appears willing to contribute to a labor framework that will ensure mutual satisfaction, especially in view of the corporation’s major transformation of activities.