Podkrepa union calls for overhaul of state pay system, higher transparency

The president of the Podkrepa Confederation of Trade Unions, Dimitar Manolov, has called for a complete overhaul of the state administration’s payment system. He advocated for civil servants to pay their own social security contributions, arguing that the state’s current practice of covering these contributions effectively reduces their actual salaries. Manolov also proposed lifting restrictions to allow officials to hold multiple employment contracts and operate independent businesses.

He highlighted significant pay disparities, noting that ordinary officials receive minimal bonuses while a small, disliked layer of administration earns excessively. He cited a government report revealing pay differences of up to five times for the same position across different ministries. Manolov confirmed that his union initiated a meeting with the GERB party, stating that future dialogue would include all political parties.

Regarding tax policy, Manolov criticized the maximum social security income cap as a major distortion and supported a broader discussion on tax reform, pointing out that Bulgaria’s system is unique in the European Union. He also expressed concern about the state’s capacity to manage the Lukoil situation.