The government will push for a experimental five-day workweek for its employees early next year, to determine any side effects of shorter labor hours.
A ranking official, speaking under the terms of anonymity, said that the move is independent of whether or not a deal between labor, management, and government could be reached in the Tripartite Commission later this month.
The measures will involve all government branches except those that handle complaints and suggestions from the public and that the shorter workweek will be carried out once or twice every month.
He conceded that there was a possibility that the differences between management and labor over the five-day workweek would delay measures taking effect in the private sector. The official also said that terrorist attacks against the United States and the current downturn in the economy were impediments to shorter working hours, but stressed that the move should be carried out before next year's FIFA World Cup.
He said...despite reservations, a shorter workweek could fuel consumption that could be beneficial for economic growth.