A significant number of union representatives from Efling Union attended a training course this week, where they were introduced to various fundamental aspects of labor law. The number of Efling union reps at different workplaces has grown significantly in recent months, an important and positive development.
Around 80 union representatives took part in the course, which was held at Hótel Örk in Hveragerði. One of the sessions included a lecture by staff from Efling’s labor rights department, covering topics such as sick leave and workplace accident rights. Union reps must be well-informed about these issues, as well as labor law in general, since they are the first point of contact for members who need support.
The union reps were also introduced to a new wage calculator currently in development for Efling members. This new tool will make it much easier for members to access accurate information about their pay entitlements, whether for regular working hours, overtime, holiday pay, or bonuses. The union reps tested the calculator and gave positive feedback.
“It was really good to bring together union reps from both the private and public sectors for this course, since we usually attend training separately for most of the year. It is easy to forget sometimes just how many of us there are until we all come together,” says Ian McDonald, union representative for Efling. “I also think it made a real difference to be in a different setting than usual; people seemed much more open and willing to talk to other reps they might not otherwise have interacted with,” Ian added.
After the course, a team-building excursion took place, which is vital for strengthening the connections between union reps and enhancing their cooperation, benefiting all Efling members. The group went on a snowmobile trip on Langjökull glacier in perfect weather, and the outing was a great success.
Efling is proud of the large number of members who have stepped forward to serve as union representatives. Their work forms the foundation of the union’s labor movement, which in recent years has delivered significant and measurable improvements in pay and working conditions for workers. All Efling members are encouraged to consider taking on representative roles, either as union reps in the workplace or in other positions within the union. For more information, email felagsmal@efling.is.
