"In September 2024, the total number of 'lay-off' situations with retributive compensation, (normal concession, in accordance with the provisions of the Labor Code), was 5,846", indicates the summary prepared by the Strategy and Planning (GEP) of the Ministry of Labor, Solidarity and Social Security.

In relation to the same period last year, in September there was a 15% decrease (1,030 fewer benefits processed) of workers covered by this regime provided for in the Labour Code.

In monthly terms, the decrease was 10% (647 instalments less).

According to the GEP, the working hours reduction regime covered 3,058 people in September, a 20.4% drop compared to August (785 fewer benefits processed) and a 3.7% decrease compared to September 2023 (118 fewer installments processed).

On the other hand, the temporary suspension regime covered 2,788 people in September, that is, an increase of 5.2% compared to August (138 more processings), but a reduction of 24.6% compared to the same period of the year past (minus 912 processings).

These benefits were processed for 336 employers, 86 fewer than the previous month and 27 fewer than the same period last year.

The 'lay-off' provided for in the Labor Code results in a temporary reduction in normal working periods or suspension of employment contracts made at the initiative of companies in a crisis situation.

According to labor law, workers on lay-off with a suspended contract are entitled to receive monthly salary compensation equal to two thirds of their normal gross salary, with a guarantee of a minimum equal to the value of the national minimum wage (820 euros in 2024) and a maximum corresponding to three times the minimum wage.