The Board of our Union met with company management to present the demands and issues that need to be addressed, which concern various departments and are faced by our colleagues.

We know very well—and this was evident during the meeting—that the only way to achieve our demands is through collective struggle.

As for pay raises—a pressing demand, since we can’t even afford the basics—their response was to postpone the issue and state that it would be reconsidered in the fourth quarter.

Regarding permanent contracts, they noted that the percentage has increased from 20% to over 40% in the last two years. They also stated that they have already implemented a plan to ensure that no colleague remains without a permanent contract for more than five years. They avoided addressing the request to convert all contracts to permanent contracts after three years.

We discussed the need for benefits that would truly provide relief to workers, such as a summer camp for colleagues’ children, an increase in bonuses when we work on Christmas or Easter, and not just a €20 payment to anyone working in the offices on those days.

With regard to ergonomic equipment (desks and chairs) for those working from home, they stated that the initiative to provide full equipment to colleagues—which had begun as a pilot program—was ultimately not feasible, so we pushed to ensure that ergonomic chairs and footrests were provided, including for those working in the office buildings.

Regarding the difficulties in applying for leave and obtaining timely approval, they claimed that there is no problem since the process has been automated. However, they will look into the complaints that have been submitted to the union from various departments.

Regarding the increase in work intensity in various departments, they avoided giving a specific answer.

We agreed to give them a few days to respond to the requests submitted by our colleagues from a major telecommunications provider.

Our Board of Directors is awaiting their response and will act accordingly, in consultation with our colleagues. In any case, we will make every effort to ensure the highest possible turnout at the upcoming General Assembly, where our action plan will be decided.

We are gathering registrations for the large demonstration in Thessaloniki to be held on Saturday, September 5. Please send your emails to contact@setep.gr.