A new agreement has been reached, resolving the ongoing conflict within Sweden's healthcare and medical care sector, according to a press release from SKR (the employer organization for all the country's municipalities and regions).
"This agreement is a positive development, putting an end to a period of significant strain on the care sector," stated Ulf Olsson, chairman of SKR's negotiation delegation.
The agreement aligns with the labor market benchmark of a 3.3% increase. Additionally, a declaration of intent regarding working hours has been established by both parties.
Vårdförbundet (the Swedish Association of Health Professionals) expressed satisfaction with the agreement in their own press release.
Notably, the agreement includes reduced working hours for employees working unsociable hours. These reductions can be as significant as four hours per week.
"We are pleased to see our efforts pay off," said Sineva Ribeiro, chairperson of Vårdförbundet. "We have secured progress on the issue of working hours for our members."
Ribeiro further elaborated on the specific gains: "Employers have shifted from outright refusal to reduced working hours. Now, members working rotating shifts will benefit from shorter workweeks. Additionally, those currently working a 40-hour week with night shifts will see their hours reduced to 36."
Vårdförbundet views this agreement as a step towards their long-term goal of a gradual decrease in working hours for their members.