On Thursday 26 May 2016, more than 80 delegates from the LCGB trade and service provider sector gathered in Kayl to listen to Secretary of State for the Economy, Francine Closener, present the first results of a study to analyse the organisation, working conditions and impact of extra opening hours for employees in this field.

In 2015, the LCGB Services & Commerce launched an information campaign on its grievances on working conditions following the announcement of opening hours exemptions on Sundays and bank holidays in the Ville-Haute and Gare districts of Luxembourg City.

The study found that 65% of employees are women and one-fifth of employees must work extended hours. According to the LCGB, these two findings reveal a strong need to reconcile family life with work commitments and the second phase of the study will constitute a survey gathering information on the reality of employees' working lives.

The Secretary of State for the Economy also drew a report of these exemptions, which the LCGB claimed have so far been unable to produce the desired effect of attracting more consumers to the city to improve the attractiveness and competitiveness of the trade sector in Luxembourg, which forms part of the Pakt PRO Commerce.

Francine Closener however stated that although areas such as e-commerce and shopping attractions in the Greater Region faced challenges, the construction of 200,000 m2 of addional retail space in Differdange and other regions would enhance the expansive nature of trade in the Grand Duchy.

At the end of her speech, delegates were able to exchange views with the Secretary of State, whilst National President of the LCGB, Patrick Dury, gave a closing speech reiterating the trade union's position that any discussion of the working time of employees in the trade sector must be accompanied by measures to ensure a healthy balance between work and family life. The LCGB has demanded general organisational measures such as child care or improving public transport on weekends, as well as the recognition and fair pay for the flexibility required by the commerce employee.

 

Photo by LCGB