On January 14, the Senate discussed with Minister Van Hijum of Social Affairs and Employment about implementing an EU directive to ensure adequate minimum wages. This involves translating the directive into Dutch law, known as implementation. The Senate will vote on the proposal and submitted motions on January 21.
Four motions were submitted, including those by Senator Vos concerning the removal of reference values from ministerial regulations and setting the minimum wage at 60% of the median gross wage. The minister advised against the motions.
The proposal amends the Minimum Wage Act to align with the EU directive. The directive introduces a framework to ensure adequate minimum wages in the EU, promoting collective wage bargaining. Member states retain the freedom to set their minimum wage levels. The directive largely aligns with existing Dutch practices, resulting in limited legal changes.
Senators expressed various views. Senator Vos criticized the minimalist approach, while Senator Van Apeldoorn emphasized that minimum wages must ensure livelihood. Senator Bakker inquired about the examination of abolishing youth minimum wages, and Senator Moonen advocated for faster reforms. The debate also addressed the directives impact on the Caribbean Netherlands and the balance between market forces and wage regulations.