Parasol news: Government 'must consider directive practicalities'

Posted on 2 December 2008

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The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) has urged the government to address the concerns of recruiters over the Temporary (Agency) Workers' Directive.

New research conducted by the confederation indicates that many are worried about the practical implications of equal pay and holiday conditions for temps who work in an employment role for 12 weeks or more.

Some 48 per cent of agencies surveyed believed the directive would lead to a ten per cent rise in the cost of filling a temporary position, due to the additional administrative duties required.

Kevin Green, chief executive of the REC, said that temporary work provides "a vital route" for people looking to get back into work and for businesses who need a flexible workforce, so it is crucial that the directive is workable for employers and employees alike.

He added: "Our research shows that while recruiters are keen to make it work, there are some legitimate concerns over how it will be implemented in practice and how it will affect the use of agency workers in the long term."

The Temporary (Agency) Workers' Directive was approved by the European Parliament's employment committee in October, before a full vote of house members agreed to its terms.

Category: Agency News

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