The new covid law will require, from 15 January, any person who is not vaccinated or recovered to be tested daily in order to be present at their workplace. The government held talks with trade unions ahead of announcing the changes. However, the main trade union of the financial sector, Aleba did not take part in the discussions.

“Companies should bear the costs of testing non-vaccinated employees whose presence is necessary on site,” stated Aleba in a press release. This is to avoid discrimination according to the trade union.

Aleba also expressed its regret for not being invited to take part in the negotiations between the government and trade unions as it clearly has a different view on how to approach regulations at the workplace.

The union called on companies from the financial sector to give preference to teleworking for the time being. Aleba also referred to the recent extension of the tax agreement for cross-border workers in Germany and expressed its hopes that similar arrangements will be made with Belgium and France in order to guarantee teleworking for those living across the border.