With a threat of strike on the table, the Union of Registry and Notary Workers (STRN) decided to grant another ten days for negotiations with the Ministry of Justice (MJ), guaranteeing, however, that this is the final deadline. “In 10 days, there are only two paths: either we have an agreement and social peace, or we have no agreement”said the president, Arménio Maximino, at a press conference this afternoon, April 16th.
During the morning, representatives of the union management met with the Government. “At this meeting, we had the opportunity to better clarify the proposals we presented and the impact they will have on the sector”he explained. According to the director, the decision to extend the negotiations is the result of a “sense of responsibility”.
From STRN’s perspective, a strike would not be beneficial at this time. “We also want to assume this responsibility so that we can reach an agreement, which would be more advantageous for officials and companies. The sector does not need any additional factor of instability given the challenges it already faces.”
According to Maximino, what separates the ministry from an agreement is “0.49% per year, a completely ridiculous and insignificant amount compared to the benefits that will come from this for the sector and for the quality of the public service we provide on a daily basisThe STRN also remembers a debate proposed by the PSD, when it was in opposition, in which it presented “a set of solutions”.
According to the union, a budgetary issue cannot be invoked by the ministry. “Registration fees finance 60% of the entire operation of the Ministry of Justice”he said. Arménio Maximino expressed confidence in an understanding: “On this path, we have already covered at least two thirds; it is, therefore, reasonable for the Government to cover the remaining third.”
The union believes that it is necessary 270 registrars and 2,731 registration officers, making the situation worse by the fact that around 30 employees retire every month.
amanda.lima@dn.pt
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