‘To da netko završi posao u 10 ujutro pa ostatak radnog vremena bude u garaži ili ode kući, više neće ići‘

In Rijeka, workers at the municipal company Čistoća have reached a new agreement after avoiding a planned strike. The deal was finalized through the amendment to the collective agreement, ensuring wage increases for operational staff while keeping public service costs stable. According to director Igor Velimirović, the agreement has prevented a potential disruption in waste collection services and has set new standards for employee performance. The agreement includes a salary increase of 200 euros gross for operational workers, raising their minimum monthly earnings to between 1,400 and 1,450 euros. Drivers will see their salaries rise to approximately 1,760 euros, excluding additional benefits and overtime hours. This increase is expected to cost the company around 1.3 million euros annually, which will be offset by adjusting public service pricing and optimizing operations. Velimirović emphasized stricter oversight of worker efficiency and introduced exceptional dismissals for those who fail to meet performance expectations. He stated, “If someone finishes work at ten in the morning and spends the rest of the working day in the garage or goes home, that will no longer be acceptable.” He added that savings are being planned through better sorting of mixed waste, aiming to improve overall operational efficiency. The company highlighted that one of its ongoing challenges remains the illegal delay of waste disposal. Approximately 100 tons of material are collected weekly from areas where residents improperly dispose of waste near containers. Velimirović clarified that this waste is still collected daily, adding it as an extra task for the team. Technical supervisor Edhem Subašić announced the continuation of introducing individual waste collection systems. Starting from November 1st, these measures will expand to include Mlaka and Podmurvice, followed by Škurinjska Dragica and Belveder. This expansion aims to enhance the effectiveness of waste management and reduce the burden on existing infrastructure. The implementation of these changes comes amid broader efforts to modernize waste management practices in the region. With increased wages and improved operational procedures, the company hopes to maintain consistent service levels while addressing long-standing issues such as improper waste disposal. These developments reflect a shift towards more structured and accountable waste management practices in Rijeka.