On Wednesday 29 January 2025, The Labour and Mines Inspectorate (ITM), in collaboration with Luxembourg’s Ministry of Labour and the Horesca Federation, launched a practical guide and communication campaign to support those working in the Horeca sector.
The guide is reported to outline the main provisions of the Labour Code applicable to the Horeca sector and as responding to the particularities of the sector that is characterised by its flexibility and distinctiveness in terms of working hours, the specifics of its POT (work organisation plan), maximum working hours, service cuts and remuneration.
The communication campaign is expected to raise awareness among employers, employees, apprentices and trainees about their rights and obligations through the use of traditional media, digital media and partnerships. The guide can also be accessed through a QR code which will form part of the campaign.
Secretary General of the Horesca Federation, Steve Martellini, welcomed this initiative: “We would like to express our support and enthusiasm for the initiatives announced by Minister Georges Mischo. We particularly appreciate the commitment to adopt a proactive approach, which is essential to improve the perception and effectiveness of ITM actions on the ground. We are convinced that this new approach will have a significant impact on improving the regulation of the Horeca sector, while preserving the shared interests of all stakeholders. The promise of proactive controls and continued support reflects a deep understanding of the challenges facing our sector. It is essential that these measures are not only visible in our speeches, but also tangible and perceptible by all stakeholders in the sector on the ground. We are committed to working closely with the Ministry and the ITM to ensure the effective implementation of these actions, and we hope that this strengthened approach will foster a fair and competitive working environment for all."
Luxembourg’s Minister of Labour, Georges Mischo, added: "Aware of the concerns expressed by some stakeholders in the Horeca sector regarding the perceived overly strict role of the ITM, we wish to reaffirm our commitment to working hand in hand with all stakeholders. The objective of this campaign is to support the sector, through clear and practical tools, in order to prevent irregularities and minimise situations requiring sanctions. By valuing work and promoting constructive dialogue, the ITM is part of a partnership and support approach to strengthen the competitiveness and attractiveness of the Horeca sector in Luxembourg."
The Director of the ITM, Marco Boly, stressed: "The objective of this guide and this campaign is to guarantee simple and clear access to the specific legal obligations of the Horeca sector. We want to make employers' daily lives easier while strengthening worker protection."
The guide is available, in French or German, via: https://itm.public.lu/fr/publications/flyer/brochure-horeca.html