We should talk about upgrading, not reforming the pension system, and act extremely carefully. No withdrawal or restriction of already acquired rights of pensioners is envisaged, said the Minister of Labor and Social Policy Borislav Gutsanov during a debate on the future of the pension system, organized by the Confederation of Independent Trade Unions in Bulgaria (CITUB). The discussion was also attended by Denitsa Sacheva – Chairman of the Committee on Labor and Social Policy in the 51st National Assembly and Deputy Chairman of the Committee on Financial Supervision Diana Yordanova, announced the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy, quoted by BTA.
“During these six months, which we will have to prepare a roadmap, we will not do anything on our own, but will use them to the maximum every day to discuss the views of each involved institution“, said Gutsanov. He pointed out that no decisions have been made in advance, and the government's program for joint management does not include a change in the pension system.
Borislav Gutsanov emphasized that we should approach moderately and wisely when discussing upcoming reforms in the pension system, which affects everyone. “When changes are made to it frequently, this leads to uncertainty among people. Everyone should know when they start their work experience what to expect in the future. And this predictability is crucial for building trust in the system”, the Minister of Social Affairs also stated.
As a reserve for increasing revenues in the social security system, the Minister highlighted the fight against the shadow economy. With my order, I ordered the Main Labor Inspectorate to begin massive control. For the first three months of the year alone, 914 cases of work without an employment contract were identified during 13,000 inspections. I think that enormous efforts should be directed here. That is why we have also started work on prevention, meetings at universities with young people, to whom we should explain how important it is to have employment contracts. It is very important for them to understand that it is not just about pensions, but also about benefits for maternity, illness, and unemployment, Minister Gutsanov pointed out.
I believe that there should be no increase in the retirement age. I want us to see all the reports, materials, and only then discuss what the roadmap should be and what should happen as possible changes in the pension system. Minister Gutsanov commented on this on the sidelines of parliament yesterday in connection with the draft submitted by the ruling majority in the National Assembly for the development of a roadmap for improving the pension system.