Some healthcare staff and emergency services have warned of redundancies under the EU directive which is to regulate working hours within Sweden’s municipalities and regions (SKR). After October 1, staff must get 11 hours of 24-hour rest, which could stop 24-hour shifts. This has created strong reactions from, among other things, firefighters around Sweden, and therefore last week Lars Klevensparr sent a letter to the Minister for Civil Defence, Carl-Oskar Bohlin.
“Fearing the worst”
In it, he asks the minister to work for Sweden to make an exception to the rule or for the change to be postponed.
– I fear the worst and that is that a number of firefighters may resign. And considering the challenges we have now with building up the civil defense, we need to become more, we should not become fewer, says Lars Klevensparr.
Isn’t it positive to have 11 hours of daily rest from a working environment perspective?
– Be and can put the good intentions first. Had it been the case that my firefighters had complained, that we have high sick leave rates or workplace accidents, but that is not the case here. Without this, this is a well-functioning rescue service operation, says Lars Klevensparr.
The minister answers
According to SKR, negotiations are still ongoing regarding the new provisions on 24-hour rest and adjustments that may be needed in certain agreements, for example working hours for doctors and emergency service personnel. However, the rules must still be in line with the minimum requirements for the Working Time Directive.
Due to ongoing negotiations, SKR has chosen not to comment on the matter.
Health care staff and emergency services have warned that there may be redundancies after October 1, what do you think the effects of this might be on civil defence?
– This is an issue that must be considered by the parties and which I, as a government representative, cannot get involved in, says Carl-Oskar Bohlin, Minister for Civil Defence.
Start the clip to hear Carl-Oskar Bohlin, Minister for Civil Defence, respond to the letter.
