Labor Deal Passed with 158 Votes – PASOK Opposes in Principle but Supports Key Provisions

The Parliament approved the labor bill on collective agreements with 158 votes in favor and 134 against, following a roll-call vote requested by the KKE.

Labor Minister Niki Kerameus described the agreement as “historic”, emphasizing that it concerns institutions, not individuals, while responding to opposition calls for the bill’s withdrawal.

“Never before has a government reached an agreement with all social partners on such a scale. We can finally find common ground. Every word of this agreement and the bill reflects a consensus between the government and all stakeholders,” Kerameus said, underlining that the legislation ushers in a new era of broader coverage for workers.

The vote also revealed political contradictions: while the GSEE (Greek General Confederation of Labor) unanimously supported the bill (except KKE), opposition parties diverged between Parliament votes and key articles. PASOK, for example, opposed the bill in principle but supported specific provisions they considered positive. Party spokesperson Dimitris Mantzos described it as “three steps back, one step forward.”

Kerameus expressed surprise at this divergence, noting: “PASOK votes no in principle but yes on key articles. How is that possible? I raise my hands,” highlighting the opposition’s awkward position.

The bill represents an attempt to foster collaboration between the government and social partners, while also bringing to light tensions between political decisions and union positions, creating a rich backdrop for political commentary and speculation on party strategies and parliamentary dynamics.

Source: pagenews.gr