Portugal: unions open talks on 2011 wage increases after a “frozen” year because of the crisis

Calculated claims.  The General Confederation of Portuguese Workers (CGTP, close to the communist party, PCP), proposed a 3.5% wage increase in 2011, with a €25 monthly increase for the lowest wages.  The General Workers’ Union (UGT, close to the socialist party) proposed an increase between 2.6 and 3.2% depending on businesses’ situation.  The trade unions are banking on 2% of inflation and a 1.2% productivity index to justify their offers.  For the first time in months, the UGT took the initiative to mention appeal to strike and protest if wages aren’t increased.  Please remember that the organization didn’t call for the May 29 demonstration which brought 250,000 people in the streets of Lisbon.