On Friday 20 June, a conversation took place between the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment, the meat sector, the temporary agency sector and the trade unions on a possible sectoral ban on temporary agency work. During this conversation, Minister Van Hijum indicated that a complete ban on temporary agency work would not be introduced at this time. Instead, the cabinet wants to formulate concrete objectives together with the sector to tackle long-term, structural abuses and further improve the position of migrant workers.
“This is an opportunity to think together about a new labour model. Vion is ready to contribute to this. We have already taken serious steps towards more stable employment and optimising the conditions of flex workers, and we are convinced that an industry-wide solution is feasible. But it requires realism, cooperation and commitment from all parties involved,” says Tjarda Klimp (CEO Vion).
Vion sees this change as an opportunity to work together with the sector on a future-proof, fair and sustainable labour market model within the meat sector.
Concrete commitment from Vion
In recent years, Vion has taken important steps towards stable labour relations for everyone. More than 900 temporary workers have now been given permanent contracts. We work exclusively with certified, Dutch-based temporary employment agencies and regularly conduct audits on wage payments, accommodation and compliance with collective labour agreements. We also already test these agencies against the new requirements of the upcoming Law on the Admission of Temporary Workers (WTTA) in anticipation of the legislation.
Follow-up
In the coming weeks, we will work hard with our partners within the meat sector to develop a concrete plan of action. This plan will be submitted to the ministry in mid-July. We remain committed to a transparent, fair and socially responsible meat sector in which migrant workers have a strong, well-protected position.