Dutch unions look for real pay increases

The main union confederation in the Netherlands is looking for a real increase in pay for 2003 after a year when pay has done little more than keep pace with inflation.

The FNV is making an initial call for a 3.5% pay increase plus 0.5% for other improvements, such as more childcare and dependency leave. Inflation is currently 3.3% but is forecast to fall to 2.25% next year.

The claim is presented in a document called Against the wind, because of the hostility unions face from the new right-wing government, which has already ignored union advice on sickness benefits and unemployment and plans to scrap incentives to workers for saving.

Union leaders will agree a final figure in November.