Today, working at the Council would be unthinkable without flexitime. It allows for the right balance between the needs of an unpredictable Institution, which needs its staff at all times, including nights, holidays and weekends, and the needs of the staff to preserve their health and to have a life outside work.

These are things that our elders dreamed of. Prior to 2006, working hours were fixed, with no adjustments, from 8:30am to 5pm. Any absence had to be covered by annual leave. Night or weekend work was not recoverable (except for grades 1-4) – some of them might have found an understanding boss…

In 2004, things started to change changed. The Council’s administration introduced a system of automatic recording of attendance hours, to combat so-called ‘illegal absenteeism’”. Union Syndicale, quickly supported by the FFPE, took advantage of this to demand flexible working hours in return.

The deal succeeded! Opposed by some of the staff, in particular the embryonic new R&D organisation, Union Syndicale and the FFPE submitted the compromise with the administration to a referendum. More than 80% of the Council’s staff voted in favour of the deal. The new system came into force in 2006.

From now on, if Margus wants to take care of his school children every Wednesday afternoon, he can plan a free slot accordingly. Clara had a trilogue meeting until 4:00 a.m.; she can take that day off, and not return to work until the next day.

Susanna’s mother-in-law shows up unexpectedly, and Susanna takes time off to recover her overtime. Finally, Dirk has to see the doctor in the middle of the day. He can do so during his working hours if there is no other possible appointment.