LÍV board reacts to yellow union
09. December 2024Resolution of the LÍV board on the yellow union “Virðing”
The Board of the Commercial Federation of Iceland (LÍV) supports the resolution of the Executive Board of the Confederation of Icelandic Labour (ASÍ) and expresses full solidarity with SGS and Efling in their fight against the yellow union "Virðing," which violates fundamental principles of the Icelandic labor market and actively works to undermine the rights and benefits of employees in the hotel and restaurant sector.
The LÍV Board points out that "Virðing" is an example of a "yellow union," where employers control the organization to negotiate with themselves. This particular union serves the interests of employers within SVEIT and has a collective agreement that includes wage reductions and cuts to rights, such as sick leave, vacation, and sick leave support. Such actions undermine decades of progress in labor rights and contravene the fundamental rules that have governed the Icelandic labor market for generations.
LÍV calls on ethical employers to reject such practices and urges its member unions to take strong measures against this attack on workers. The LÍV Board emphasizes the importance of both employers and employees respecting the fundamental principles of the Icelandic labor market and adhering to legally binding collective agreements. It declares unconditional solidarity with employees in the hotel and restaurant sector in their fight for improved wages and rights. LÍV-affiliated unions stand ready to respond to such attacks with all available means.