Efling secures new collective agreement for health workers in Iceland

Efling, a labor union in Iceland, has successfully negotiated a new collective agreement with the Association of Enterprises in Welfare Services (SFV), marking a significant milestone for health workers. Sólveig Anna Jónsdóttir, the union’s chair, emphasized the importance of this agreement, which comes amid ongoing staffing shortages in nursing homes.

With nearly 3,000 Efling members employed in these facilities, Jónsdóttir expressed pride in the collective strength and representation of workers within the sector. She noted that feedback from staff in nursing homes over the past years has illustrated challenging conditions resulting from understaffing, with some reports describing the situation as shocking.

The new agreements are seen as essential for the welfare of employees, residents, and their families. Importantly, Jónsdóttir pointed out that potential strike actions have had a significant impact on the negotiations, marking a turning point that showcases the union’s influence.

“The fact that people have reached a stage where they take our words seriously is encouraging,” she stated. Jónsdóttir highlighted that the actions of Efling members, particularly women in care roles, have positioned the union strongly in these negotiations.

The government is now tasked with finding solutions to the staffing issues in nursing homes by April 1. This emphasis on employment conditions aims to enhance the well-being of both workers and care recipients, addressing longstanding challenges within Iceland’s healthcare system.