Gibraltar is seeing a rising tide of “unacceptable working practices” with the introduction of working contracts that can only be classified as ‘contratos basura’ and which are common practice in ‘gig’ economies, according to Unite the union. 

Unite says this is “totally unacceptable”  as it also undermines the care and service that is provided in many Government departments. 

A spokesperson said: “It's time for Gibraltar to decide what kind of society it wants to be. As we leave the European Union we must tackle the burning injustice of unfairness in working conditions for employees with short term contracts, on supply and agency work.

“When it comes to workers' rights in these different scenarios a trend has been highlighted repeatedly by our union that is undermining many of the hard won achievements of the labour movement in Gibraltar over the past 40 years.

“We must ensure that workers both in the Private and Public Sector are treated fairly and that these ever lasting fixed, short term and agency contracts are converted into permanent, properly paid, high quality jobs for all those in post that meet the criteria and have been continuously employed for 52 weeks or more. 

“That the system of patronage and nepotism surrounding access to the job market and to promotions within the public service is corrected. Only then will we see a system that helps to improve the public service that the community deserves.

“Unite the Union will be at the Piazza on Saturday the 22^nd December from 09:30 hrs. till 12:30 hrs. where we intend to inform the general public of the dangers to Gibraltar’s young workers if we continue to ignore these discriminatory working practices.

“Come along and listen to our youth as we explain the consequences of undermining the rights of workers in Gibraltar. We need to understand the damage that is being done by not having an ambitious training programme for our children and grandchildren.”

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