German government considers removal of labour market restrictions on eight EU member states
The European Union has welcomed the announcement that the German government is considering the partial opening of its labour market to workers from eight Member States which joined the European Union in 2004.
Vladimir Spidla, European Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities said: "I very much welcome the fact that the German government is reconsidering the restrictions on free movement of workers in force since May 2004. It is high time that there is a discussion on this issue in Germany, given the national economic and labour market situation. The transitional measures on free movement of workers are designed to do just this – allow a gradual step-by-step transition to a fully liberalised labour market."
He continued: "We have seen that liberalizing the labour market has been to the benefit of both the economy of the host country as it met labour market shortages as well as of the mobile workers as they gained new experiences and skills."
“The transitional measures on free movement of workers are designed to do just this – allow a gradual step-by-step transition to a fully liberalised labour market
VladimÃr Å pidla, European Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities
Germany chose to apply temporary restrictions on free movement of workers from EU-8 countries to its labour market. It can extend these temporary measures for a further two years after 2009 if it notifies the Commission of serious disturbances to its labour market or threat thereof.
Špidla added: "Lifting restrictions will also help fight undeclared work and ensure that workers enjoy better protection of their rights. I am aware that there is currently a debate in Germany on the possible establishment of systems of minimum wage. Though there is no Community competence in this matter, I have noted that most Member States use systems of minimum wage to help fight social dumping."
By deciding on partially opening its labour market, Germany would be making a step towards the full lifting of restrictions which has to take place by the end of the transition period in April 2011 in any case.
