Syregela – Tackling the demographic problem is one of the most important challenges

“Tackling the demographic problem is one of the most important challenges for both our country and Europe,” said, among others, the Deputy Minister of Labor, Responsible for Demographic and Family Policy and Gender Equality, Maria Syregela, in her speech. at the Economist conference, while focusing on the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs planning for family support, harmonization of family and professional life, and substantive gender equality.

According to Ms. Syregela, the effects of the demographic are felt in our country and intensified during the period of health crisis.

In this context, the Deputy Minister stressed that the strengthening of women’s work and the achievement of reconciliation of personal / family and professional life are two of the main priorities of the ministry, while listing a number of initiatives that have been taken in this direction, such as permits parental leave, protection of parents from dismissal, “Neighborhood Nannies”, babysitting and infant care in large companies, the “Equality Mark” for businesses promoting equal treatment and reconciliation policies, etc. .

Earlier, at the Economist conference, SYRIZA MP and Head of Finance Efi Ahtsioglou also spoke, arguing that the current working model in Greece not only produces precariousness, but ultimately feeds back the demographic crisis. “This model is not sustainable and must be changed,” said Ms. Ahtsioglou. The goal, as she stressed, is a working model that offers security, that is, ensures stability at work and ensures a decent level of salary.

In this context, she stressed the need to strengthen the bargaining position of employees, increase wages and reduce precarious forms of employment. “The reduction of working time is of particular importance,” added Ms. Ahtsioglou, explaining that “we must start discussing and even switch to a model of 35-hour work without reducing wages. This will have a positive effect on productivity “said Ms. Ahtsioglou, while estimating that it will contribute to achieving reconciliation between family and professional life.