Fiat signs deal

As expected, Italian vehicle maker Fiat has signed a separate deal for its 86,000 employees after leaving employers’ association Confindustria. The agreement was reached last month with the metalworking affiliates of two of the main union confederations, as well as with other union bodies.

It extends the amount of overtime permitted, increases the number of shifts worked and reduces break times. It also includes measures to combat absenteeism and a responsibility clause for employees, which can lead to sanctions if it is not observed. Pay is to go up by more-than-expected inflation.

However, the largest metalworking union, FIOM, which is part of Italy’s largest union confederation (CGIL), did not sign the agreement, saying it fundamentally undermines the role of unions. This means FIOM can no longer represent employees within the company, as this right is reserved for the signatory unions.

As part of its campaign against the deal, FIOM has collected the signatures of 19,000 Fiat employees, more than 20% of the total workforce.