The president of Uruguay, Yamandú Orsi, spoke regarding the proposal to reduce the working hours from 48 to 40 hours a week presented by the Plenary Intersyndical of Workers-National Convention of Workers (PIT-CNT). Orsi, in statements to the local press in the town of Chuy, department of Rocha, emphasized the importance of this reduction being accompanied by an increase in productivity so that workers can maintain their income. He highlighted the need for the equation between the reduction of working hours and productivity to close adequately for it to be viable.
The Uruguayan president emphasized the complexity of this issue and the need to address it from an approach that considers nuances and intermediate alternatives. He stressed the importance of continuous training for workers, as well as constant updating to face technological advancements and not be left behind in the labor market. Orsi emphasized that the debate surrounding the reduction of working hours is not simple and must be approached comprehensively, considering various factors at play.
The proposal for a reduction in working hours without a corresponding reduction in salary was presented in the context of the commemoration of International Workers' Day and later supported by the Minister of Labor, Juan Castillo, who urged the opening of a necessary debate on this matter. Despite this, the proposal has generated reservations from business sectors in Uruguay, who view this initiative with caution. The discussion about the balance between the reduction of working hours and the increase in productivity continues in the South American country.