The government has decided to undertake a review of the lay-off regulations in the fishing industry. Under current regulations, the fishing industry is exempt from paying the salary to laid-off employees for the first 15 days (employer financed period), unlike most other Norwegian employers who lay off their employees. The threshold for when furlough may be permitted and give entitlement to unemployment benefits is also lower in the fishing industry than in other industries, as working hours must be reduced by at least 40% in the fish processing industry, while according to the general regulations, the requirement for decrease is at least 50% reduction of working time. The government has now invited key labour market parties to a working group to examine whether the special rules in the fishing industry are well adapted to the current situation and needs. The working group's proposals shall be seen in the context of the government's goal of increasing the number of employees employed by permanent, regular employment.
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