Corfu, April 19 – The Parents’ Association of the Central Corfu Municipality has publicly denounced a proposed draft law titled “Staffing procedure for the needs of nurseries, creative activity centers (KDAP), and KDAP for people with disabilities (AMEA) of Local Authorities.” The association argues that the bill, if passed, will effectively “bury” the prospect of permanent and stable employment for workers in these essential facilities, while also creating ongoing insecurity for parents regarding their operation.
Concerns Over Temporary Contracts and Funding Model
According to the Parents’ Association, the draft law proposes a system where employees would be hired primarily through an electronic general list of candidates, similar to substitute teacher registries. This list would be valid for a maximum of two years, after which a new one would be created. Furthermore, contracts would largely be converted to 8-month or, at most, 11-month durations, with the introduction of part-time employment options.
A significant point of contention is the proposed funding model, which would tie employee salaries exclusively to vouchers. This could lead to hiring as late as November, contingent on municipal budget revisions and available credits. The association warns that a reduction in staff would inevitably lead to a decrease in funding and, consequently, the shrinking or even closure of these crucial facilities.
Impact on Families and Demands for Change
The Parents’ Association emphasizes that working parents would once again be forced to seek private care, incurring additional costs for their children’s preschool education and creative activities. They question how this policy aligns with efforts to address the country’s low birth rate.
The association demands the immediate withdrawal of this “unacceptable provision” and calls for the following:
- Permanent operation of all facilities and creation of new ones: Addressing unmet needs that currently push parents towards the private sector.
- Permanent employment for all workers: Ending the current state of precarious employment.
- Stable funding from the state budget: Eliminating reliance on vouchers.
- Enhancement of services: Ensuring quality services for all children and beneficiaries.
The Parents’ Association of Central Corfu Municipality highlights that the current system of temporary programs has kept workers in a state of “permanent hostage” for decades, and the new draft law would only exacerbate this issue.
