"Spain says it will impose reforms; Unions warn of possible strike" by Daniel Woolls, Associated Press | June 1, 2010
MADRID — Spain’s Socialist government warned yesterday that it will impose what it called labor market reforms if unions and management fail to agree on changes needed for Spain to resurrect its economy and to reassure markets worried about the country’s ability to show growth and pay off debt.
The labor talks have taken on new urgency, with Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero under pressure from the European Union, the International Monetary Fund, and President Obama to take bold action and ward off a Greek-style debt crisis that would further hurt the euro.
Two ministers warned the government will give unions and management a few more days, then act decisively if needed. Hours later, another round of talks ended inconclusively.
Unions have said that if a unilateral government decree goes against the interests of workers, they will call a general strike.
Go get 'em, Spaniards!
Last week, the government won passage of a key austerity package by only one vote in Parliament....
Not exactly an overwhelming endorsement, is it?
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