Celebration of 70th anniversary of Employment Tribunal on Monday 23 May 2016 in Hotel Hermitage’s Salle Belle Epoque

copyright - Charly Gallo - Direction de la Communication

A celebration of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the Employment Tribunal, graced by the presence of H.S.H. the Sovereign Prince, was held in the Hotel Hermitage’s Salle Belle Epoque on 23 May 2016. The cocktail reception, organised in honour of the institution established by the Act of 16 May 1946, amended by Act No. 1.375 of 16 December 2010, was attended by numerous personalities, including Minister of Health and Social Affairs Stéphane Valeri and the Tribunal’s Chairman, Mr Jacques Wolzok, and Vice-Chairman, Mr Karim Tabchiche.

The Employment Tribunal, whose secretariat is provided by the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs, primarily hears disputes arising from the implementation or termination of employment contracts, regardless of the total sum involved or compensation claimed. It also rules on disputes between employees regarding work issues and on appeals against decisions of the grading committee (Article 11-1 of Act No. 739). In accordance with the provisions of the Sovereign Ordinance issued on 14 August 1967, the Tribunal is made up of 24 employee members and 24 employer members appointed by Sovereign Ordinance for six years, with half of the membership replaced every three years.

With regard to collective disputes (Act No. 473 of 4 March 1948), a Conciliation Commission made up of representatives of the Employment Tribunal hears, through a conciliation procedure, disputes which have not been resolved amicably or through the application of the provisions of collective agreements.

In his speech to mark the occasion, Mr Jacques Wolzok stressed the Tribunal’s role as a local body, accessible and offering the best possible conditions to those involved in the economic and social life of the Principality. He emphasised that, since its establishment, the Employment Tribunal has become a significant player in maintaining social harmony in Monaco.

In his response, the Sovereign Prince welcomed the focus on listening and dialogue which guides the members of the Tribunal. He thanked them for their skill in identifying fair and equitable solutions, enabling the Tribunal to be effective and available to everyone. The Prince expressed his hope that the Tribunal would continue its work in the same spirit of mutual understanding, tolerance and impartiality.

A commemorative medal was presented to H.S.H. the Sovereign Prince and to all members of the Tribunal.