According to the branch co-chairs, “It’s been a year since the sales tax rose from 5% to 8%. Some of our newer members are still struggling to settle into Japan; some of our long-term members are trying to support a family.” 

New demands were voted on by members in December and negotiations are set to start in mid March. Demands include a 2,000 yen increase in the base pay, a 5% increase in wages, and contract renewal bonuses based on seniority. 

It’s time for ECC to acknowledge that financial pressures have increased on our members, and to agree to a long-overdue pay raise.

We urge all those who aren’t yet members to join and help improve our financial security.