EIROnlineThe European Industrial Relations Observatory (EIRO) is a monitoring instrument offering news and analysis on European industrial relations. Its aim is to collect, analyse and disseminate high-quality and up-to-date information on key developments in industrial relations in Europe. It aims primarily to serve the needs of national and European level organisations of the social partners, governmental organisations and EU institutions.Innovation and training key to future employment strategies- January 25, 2007 In October 2006, the Austrian Institute of Economic Research presented a white paper on national employment strategies, which had been commissioned by the social partners. The paper presents some strategies for reducing overall unemployment in the economy. It suggests putting the emphasis on technological progress and higher quality of production, rather than higher production rates supported by low wages. The social partners have generally reacted positively to these suggestions.http://www.eiro.eurofound.eu.int/2006/12/articles/at0612049i.html New international trade union confederation founded- January 11, 2007 On 1 November 2006, a new International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) was officially formed at its Founding Congress held in Vienna. ITUC was established as a result of the merger of the former International Confederation of Free Trade Unions and the World Confederation of Labour. The aim of the new organisation is to set up a stronger and more united trade union movement at transnational level in order to respond to the growing challenge of economic globalisation.http://www.eiro.eurofound.eu.int/2006/12/articles/at0612039i.html Social democrats propose basic monthly social security cover- January 11, 2007 Following the general elections, held in October 2006, the Social Democratic Party regained its position as the largest parliamentary party. Subsequently, the party proposed the idea of a basic cover scheme, which provides for a minimum income of 800 for unemployed people and retirees. However, the proposal has received a mixed response from other political parties and the social partners.http://www.eiro.eurofound.eu.int/2006/12/articles/at0612029i.html |