Text tabled : A7-0246/2012

  Jarosław Leszek Wałęsa (PPE), in writing. – (PL) I voted for the improvement of women’s working conditions in the service sector through adoption of amendments to the directive on pregnant workers and acceptance of the flexible working hours proposed by Parliament. In my view, it is very important to advance the protection of rights and improve the working conditions of pregnant workers and of those who have recently given birth. The protection of motherhood and fatherhood against dismissal from employment, salary cuts during maternity leave and downgrading of job status or remuneration upon return to work are issues that need to be addressed on the basis of the highest possible standards. Article 43 highlights the situation of locums and temporary employees who will be able to assert rights to an extent that reflects their work contribution, which will ensure their equal treatment in relation to permanent workers. I agree that it is necessary to provide strengthened policies aimed at reconciling work and family life. In particular, we need to create and expand public social service facilities in order to increase care services for children and other dependants. The provision of such facilities can also significantly help to reduce poverty among women by making it possible for them to work.