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	Social Pacts in Europe Introductory Page Finland Ireland Italy Netherlands Portugal Slovenia Spain

Country: The Netherlands

Period: 2003

Title of the Pact: Statement concerning Employment Terms Policy 2003

Matters agreed:

• Wage increase limit of 2.5% for all employees – the first time in 10 years that a centrally agreed wage ceiling has been agreed.
• The preservation of modern and affordable pension schemes.

Actions taken: Under the agreement, the government has released a sum of EUR 1 billion to meet the social partners’ demands.  Half of the amount is earmarked for alleviating the burden of taxation and social security contributions of social partners.

Comment: This agreement reflects the deteriorating international and domestic economic climate, by recommending a conservative approach to wage increases.  However, it also suggests some possible measures to encourage productivity through lump-sum performance related remuneration in addition to collective wage increases.   

Full text of the agreement.