Minister Rakušan: firefighters and police officers to receive additional 2,500 crowns

Minister of the Interior Vít Rakušan has announced that Czech firefighters and police officers are to receive a 2,500 crown increase in their salary, following a meeting between Minister Rakušan and representatives of police, firefighter and other security unions this morning to discuss wage increases and a reduction in administrative duties. The increase comprises the 1,500 crowns already promised for workers' pay grades, and an additional 1,000 crowns as a contribution to salary stabilisation.

The unions were pressing for a 10% pay raise, which they claim Rakušan previously promised, and calling for relief from excessive bureaucratic burdens. The unions were threatening a protest on November 21st if their demands were not met with solid guarantees. Union leader Aleš Lehký emphasised that members need better compensation, noting that other government sectors received a 6.9% raise. Union representatives also highlighted a rising turnover among police, with many leaving due to low wages and increased bureaucratic demands.