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Dutch Pharmacy Workers Strike
Thousands of Dutch pharmacy workers are on strike, demanding better pay, working conditions, and addressing the pressures of the government's preference policy.
Dutch
Netherlands
HealthLabour MarketNetherlandsHealthcareLabor DisputeStrikePharmacy
FnvCnvWzoa
Manon Van EssenPaula KleijbergenMarieke Van De Schepop-Smit
- What are the key demands of the striking pharmacy workers?
- The main issues driving the strike are low salaries, particularly for those working in public pharmacies, and the increasing pressures of the job, including dealing with aggressive patients and the complexities of drug regulations.
- What is the stance of the pharmacists regarding the strike?
- The strike has also highlighted the impact of the government's preference policy, which prioritizes the cheapest medications, sometimes leading to patient confusion and dissatisfaction, placing extra burden on pharmacy staff.
- What is the estimated number of pharmacies affected by the strike?
- While the strike is directed towards employers, many pharmacists support their staff's action, highlighting that they lack the funds to meet the demands and place the responsibility on the healthcare insurers and the government.
- How has the government's preference policy impacted the pharmacy workers?
- The unions involved, FNV and CNV, are demanding a 6% pay raise retroactive to July 1st, a minimum wage of €16 per hour, and full compensation for all worked hours, including preparation time.
- What is the main reason behind the strike by pharmacy workers in the Netherlands?
- Thousands of pharmacy workers across the Netherlands are striking for better pay and working conditions, impacting approximately 1000 pharmacies nationwide.