Union steps up checks on 950 foreign berry pickers

The Swedish Food Workers’ Union is increasing checks on 950 foreign berry pickers this season, even as Radio Sweden reports better conditions after years of unpaid wages and other problems.

Radio Sweden says the pickers are currently working in Swedish forests. Thai picker Phongphak Sutthiphaet said her employer no longer schedules weekend work so working-hour limits are followed, although she would prefer to work Saturdays.

The route into the forests has also narrowed. Since 1 June, Sweden no longer issues work permits to forest berry pickers whose employer is based abroad. The Migration Agency says berry pickers can still use the seasonal-work route when their employer is established in Sweden.

Under the seasonal rules, the Swedish employer must advertise the job across Sweden, the EU, the EEA and Switzerland for at least ten days, sign the contract after the advert closes, arrange insurance and offer pay and terms at least equal to collective agreements or industry practice. The union must get an opportunity to comment.

Employer-supplied housing must meet health and safety rules. Rent cannot be excessive, and it may be deducted from wages only with the worker’s written consent. A seasonal permit can last no more than nine months in a 12-month period.

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