site.btaSummer Labour Inspections to Target Mainly Tourism, Construction

The General Labour Inspectorate (GLI) will continue its compliance checks at an intensive pace during the summer, targeting mainly the sectors of tourism, construction and agriculture, where seasonal employment will reach a high point, Labour and Social Policy Minister Borislav Gutsanov said in Varna on Monday.

Noting that the informal economy in Bulgaria is rather prominent, accounting for 25% of the national economy, Gutsanov said that a few months ago he ordered the GLI to start massive inspections. More than 20,000 probes have been conducted so far. “The purpose is to curb the shadow economy to bring more money into the public purse, because, when we talk about the pension system, we should be aware that the first thing to do is to stop the drain,” he argued.

Gutsanov also said that BGN 46 million has been set aside for young people (high-school and university students) who want to start work. The money will be used to encourage employers to hire them. Employers will also be supported if they subsequently provide lasting employment to the youths.