site.btaOver 90% of 1,000 Workers Dissatisfied with Salary Levels, Shows Podkrepa Confederation of Labour Poll

Out of 1,000 workers, 94% are dissatisfied with their pay, according to a Podkrepa Confederation of Labour survey, the trade union's press centre said on Tuesday.

Dissatisfaction was highest among people earning up to BGN 1,100 (98%), followed by those earning up to BGN 2,500 (96%). Respondents earning between BGN 2,500 and BGN 5,000 were almost evenly split in terms of satisfaction and dissatisfaction, with 57% saying they were satisfied. People earning more than BGN 5,000 were 100% satisfied with their salary, the data showed. Bonuses to salaries are received by 36% of respondents. 

The results show that 91% of the respondents receive a net income of less than BGN 2,500. "The proportion of the working poor earning less than BGN 1,100 is 24%," the Podkrepa Confederation of Labour said. Some 98% of respondents want the minimum wage to be above the living wage.

The data also shows that 85% of respondents support the idea that a tax-free minimum is needed. There is sufficient public sentiment for a change in the income tax system, the trade union said. According to the results, 99% of respondents are in favour of annual wage indexation. 

At the end of January, the Podkrepa Confederation of Labour demanded an analysis and update of the minimum wage rate in connection with the sharp increase in the price of basic goods and services since the beginning of this year. The union called for no cuts in the public sector and state-owned enterprises.