Belgium, (Brussels Morning Newspaper) The European Commission called on EU member states to implement the directive on transparent and predictable working conditions.
In a statement released on Monday, the body pointed out that the deadline for implementing the social directive has arrived and stressed that the move will improve protection of workers.
It stressed that new rules will secure more predictable working conditions and give workers “timely and more complete information about the essential aspects of their job, such as place of work and remuneration.”
The EC pointed out that new rules present an important step towards a social EU.
Nicolas Schmit, European Commissioner for Jobs and Social Rights, noted “the directive on transparent and predictable working conditions is a direct response to the fast-changing reality of our labour markets.”
“New rules will help guarantee quality jobs, give workers stability and allow them to plan their lives,” he concluded.
Coming changes
The Commission pointed out that the directive limits probationary periods to a maximum of six months and introduces measures aimed at preventing abuse of zero-hour contract work.
According to new rules, employers will have to provide workers with more complete information about their work in writing and in timely manner, as well as provide workers with training related to the job.
The EC stressed that the directive “respects the flexibility of non-standard employment, thus preserving its benefits to workers and employers,” while strengthening worker protection.
It added that new rules ” will also benefit employers by ensuring worker protection remains in line with the latest developments in the labour markets, by reducing administrative obstacles for employers, for instance making it possible to provide information electronically, and by creating a level playing field among employers in the EU.”
The Commission announced plans to assess implementation of the directive, reiterating that the deadline has arrived, after which it will take action if necessary.
New rules are essential for fair working conditions, the EC stressed and pointed out that “workers have the right to be informed in writing at the start of employment about their rights and obligations resulting from the employment relationship, including on probation period.”
The Commission noted that new rules replace the Written Statement Directive adopted in 1991 and added that bloc members have to bring their respective national regulations in line with EU-wide rules to improve work-life balance for parents and carers later this month.
