FPTR’s Ultimatum: Minister Oprea Faces Backlash Over Tourism Department Reforms
In a surprising turn of events, the Federation of Romanian Tourism Employers (FPTR) has called on the Minister of Economy to reform the Tourism Department and establish a working group to draft new legislation in the field. Tensions have escalated as the federation accuses the minister of disregarding their requests and failing to engage in meaningful dialogue.
Following FPTR’s submission of proposed modifications to the Ministry of Economy, Minister Stefan-Radu Oprea expressed surprise at the ultimatum, stating it was the first such request from the federation. However, FPTR asserts that it has sent numerous registered letters to the ministry since 2023, addressing concerns about the inefficient activities within the central and local public institutions affecting the Romanian tourism sector.
Legal Friction: FPTR Challenges Consultative Council Composition Amidst Growing Tensions
In response to the federation’s ultimatum, Minister Oprea defended his actions, claiming that FPTR refused to participate in the Consultative Council. FPTR, however, argues that the council’s composition violates legal norms, as certain associations admitted by the ministry lack proper constitutive documents.
FPTR members threaten potential protests if their demands are not taken into consideration. They criticise the minister for not engaging in discussions with the federation representatives and failing to implement organisational measures without significant financial implications.
The federation, established in 1992, has been the sole representative employer federation in the tourism sector since 2006. It is recognised as such by the Bucharest Tribunal and has, since November 2023, been recognised at the sectoral level for collective bargaining and tourism-related activities.
Amid suspicions of incompatibility within the new composition of the Consultative Council on Tourism (CCT), reports emerge of potential conflicts of interest and unfair competition among its members. Business representatives claim that the new CCT members have delayed the approval of documents, creating hurdles for other businesses while advancing their own interests.
These allegations raise concerns about the integrity of the CCT and the need for a thorough examination of its members’ activities. The ongoing overhaul of the Tourism Department initiated last year appears to have fallen short in addressing real issues within the sector, leading to a persisting state of chaos in the Romanian tourism industry.
Editor: Andreea Gudin
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