In a statement sent to the media, Abreu highlighted the importance of Law 87-01 on the defense of employees, enacted during the government of Hipólito Mejía (2000-2004).

He commented that article 50 of this regulation establishes that beneficiaries of the Dominican Social Security System have the right to a minimum pension for unemployment benefits upon reaching 57 years of age, provided that they have contributed at least 300 months

The union leader said that those who do not meet this requirement can receive a pension proportional to the accumulated funds, or continue contributing until they reach the minimum time.

He pointed out that the regulations also provide that the pension for loss of employment cannot exceed the last salary.

Abreu thus responded to the recent proposals by the Dominican business sector, which supports amend the current severance pay regime, and limit it to six years.

He said that the union movement has been key to guaranteeing severance pay as an inalienable right, using the veto as a tool to stop its exclusion or reform to the detriment of workers.

At the same time, he urged the collective conscience so that this statute in favor of the stability and dignity of workers is not violated.

On Friday, Congress ruled out changes to severance pay as part of reforms to the Labor Code presented by the Executive Branch.

ied/lam/mpv