The cabinet will come up with an action plan against the shortage of personnel, including “further measures”. But most plans only take effect later, also because new policy must last for a longer period of time. The shortage in the labor market will therefore still be felt for a while.
On Friday, Minister Karien van Gennip of Social Affairs and fellow ministers wrote an extensive letter to the House about the shortage of workers. This shortage is visible in everyday life, such as in public transport and at Schiphol.
In addition to an important role for employers, the government must also act, the minister acknowledges. The government wants to increase the supply of work and reduce the demand for it. Supply and demand must also be brought closer together.
That is why the government wants to invest in innovations, better tailor training to the type of employee who is in high demand, and ensure that more people can find work. But less conventional measures are also being taken.
For example, the government wants to make it more attractive for people to continue working after their retirement age. People who move to sectors with large shortages need help.
Certain quality and training requirements may need to be adjusted. Finally, the government is investigating a full-time bonus. Employees would then receive a bonus if they decide to work more hours.
Success depends on available people
Ironically, the success of the interventions often depends on whether there are enough people, for example in childcare, so that parents can work more. Enough ICT specialists are needed for innovation and new policy will only work if there are enough people working at the implementing organisations.
In the short term, the government cannot mean too much, the cabinet admits. “Action by the government only becomes noticeable after a delay”, says Van Gennip. Moreover, the measures must not only provide an answer to the urgent problem facing the Netherlands, but must also be usable at a later date.
According to employers’ organizations MKB-Nederland and VNO-NCW, “more is really needed to accelerate a breakthrough in solving the staff shortage”. The organizations advocate more “unconventional measures by both employers and governments”.
The FNV union is happy with the measures, but does have “points of comment”. The union wants the government to do more against flex contracts: “The permanent contract must become the norm again.” The cabinet should also raise the minimum wage to 14 euros per hour, so that work becomes better paid and more attractive.
–
