Norwegian seafood companies ask for a layoff regulations increase for the fishing industry

The Norwegian Seafood Association (Sjømatbedriftene) has urged the government to increase the layoff regulations to 52 weeks within 18 months for the fishing industry. The current 26-week period is causing "significant" challenges for both the businesses and the employees.

In more detail, CEO Robert H. Eriksson explained that the consequences of the current rules modified in 2023, may end with an income problem for the companies or a negative outcome for their employees.

"If the company cannot offer work after the maximum period of 26 weeks has been used up, the laid-off employee will not be entitled to salary or unemployment benefits. The alternative for the laid-off employee would be to be terminated," he alerted.

In addition, he pointed out the lack of access to raw materials and the need to retain valuable labor and a workforce within 6 to 12 weeks. The Norwegian Food and Allied Workers Union (NNN), United Federation of Trade Unions (Fellesforbundet), NHO - Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise, and Norwegian Seafood Federation (Sjømat Norge) have also joined the petition.

"The despair is great among many of our businesses, as it is among all the employees who are now without income or will soon be without it. I urge the Minister of Labor to listen to those who are directly affected. Both the employee and employer sides are united on this issue." he warned.