Greece’s Labor Minister Niki Kerameus said on Tuesday that dozens of changes will be added to the government’s new labor bill after consultations with trade unions, professional bodies and opposition parties.
Addressing Parliament, Kerameus said the amendments include stricter guarantees for mandatory breaks during extended shifts of up to 13 hours, new measures to improve workplace safety, and provisions supporting employees with disabilities.
She rejected criticism from opposition lawmakers who claim the bill weakens workers’ rights, arguing instead that it promotes flexibility for both employees and employers “without undermining existing protections.”
Kerameus said the option for employees to work up to 13 hours a day would apply only under specific conditions and is being sought in industries such as tourism, where seasonal demand is high.
The government has said the reforms aim to modernize labor rules and align them with evolving work patterns, while unions have accused it of paving the way for longer working hours and fewer safeguards.
Public sector union ADEDY has called a 24-hour nationwide strike for Wednesday in protest against the bill.