This is a historic moment for the 250 employees of the Laboratoire National de Santé (LNS) with private-law statute. On April 21, 2023, LNS management and the only trade union represented within the laboratory, the OGBL, signed the first collective bargaining agreement in the company’s history. The agreement is retroactive to January 1, 2023, and is valid for 3 years, i.e. until December 31, 2025.

Discussions on the introduction of a collective bargaining agreement at LNS date back to 2020 – the date of the OGBL’s official request to this effect. Unfortunately, discussions were delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, the negotiating partners have always been committed to substantially improving staff salaries and working conditions through a collective bargaining agreement.

The health crisis has clearly demonstrated the importance of coordination and collaboration between all players in the healthcare system. As an essential part of Luxembourg’s healthcare system, LNS staff has always demonstrated an exemplary commitment that has gone far beyond simple operational management.

It was in this context that the first collective bargaining agreement was signed at LNS, bringing significant benefits for employees.

Not only were salaries increased by an average of 4.5%, but the value of the index point was brought into line with that of the public sector and the collective bargaining agreement of the Federation of Hospitals (CBA FHL). The employees concerned also benefit from a end-of-year allowance equivalent to a 13th month’s pay. The collective bargaining agreement also provides for a vacation allowance of 512 euros gross per year, plus a one-time bonus of 500 euros gross on signing the collective agreement.

It is also important to note that the permanence allowances are increased and meal vouchers are introduced for all employees.

The collective bargaining agreement also provides for an increase in the number of days of annual leave, from 28 to 32, plus two extra days for employees aged 50 and over, and another two days for employees aged 55 and over. Social leave of 40 hours a year and the introduction of progressive early retirement are also part of the agreement.

Last but not least, the OGBL and LNS management have also included in the agreement the principle of a financial development equivalent to that of the public sector, as is the case for the sector’s two major collective bargaining agreements (SAS and FHL).

Both parties see this agreement as a major step towards greater recognition of LNS staff and their role in the Luxembourg healthcare system. Now, more than ever, it is a question of strengthening our healthcare system through uniform working conditions, and preparing it as well as possible for the challenges of the future.

The management of the LNS and the OGBL would like to thank all employees for their tireless commitment over the last few years.

Communicated by the OGBL and the Management of the Laboratoire National de Santé,
April 24, 2023