The Netherlands: EIRO Annual Review 2009

In January 2009, the Minister of Social Affairs and the social partners remained committed to combating the economic crisis. The government promised to continue the 2008 scheme, offering companies in difficulties the option of making their employees unemployed for a maximum of half their working hours. The union federations committed to putting forward modest wage demands, while employers pledged not to table the issue of raising the present retirement age of 65. This peace agreement collapsed when the social partners were unable to advise unanimously on the retirement age and then in the autumn the government put forward its plan to increase the retirement age. This received the support of the employer organisations. Since the relations have been strained.