The Works Council [ondernemingsraad, OR] is an internal body representing, promoting and protecting the interest of the employees. The Works Council Netherlands rights are described in the Dutch Works Councils Act [WOR]. While the Works Council itself is an essential body, much of its work is done through committees, which provide focused attention on specific areas of concern or operation.
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What Is a Works Council Committee?
A Works Council committee is a sub-group formed within the broader Works Council, designed to handle specific topics, areas, or projects that need more focused attention. These committees work on behalf of the Works Council, and their purpose is to efficiently manage the wide array of subjects that impact both employees and the organisation.
In article 15.1 of the Works Councils Act it is stated: The Works Council may set up any committees which the Works Council may reasonably be deemed to require in order to perform its duties. The Works Council shall notify the entrepreneur in writing of its intention to set up any such committee, stating the duties, composition and powers of the committee and the procedures it is to follow. If the entrepreneur objects, the Works Council may request the judge of the sub-district sector to decide on the matter.
Purpose of the Works Council Committee
The main purpose of Works Council committees is to ensure that all relevant matters are addressed thoroughly and efficiently. This division of labor allows for a deeper analysis of various subjects and enables the Works Council to make more informed decisions based on each of the committees’ findings.
These committees handle a range of topics, from workplace safety and employee well-being to financial performance and restructuring processes. Committees can be permanent or temporary, depending on the nature of their focus and responsibilities.
Key Subjects Addressed by Works Council Committees
Works Council committees can touch on a variety of subjects, but the most common areas include:
- Arbo (Health and safety): Ensuring that the work environment and conditions are safe and conducive to employee well-being.
- Employee Experience & Performance: Addressing training and performance opportunities for employee growth and career advancement.
- Organisational restructuring: Reviewing the impact of mergers, acquisitions, or other structural changes on employees.
- Financial performance & Pension: Analysing the company’s financial situation, and pension and how it might influence employees’ job security or remuneration.
- Employee Benefits: Reviewing and ensuring the employee benefits provided by the company are on or above market practices.
Types of Works Council Committees in the Netherlands
1. Standing Committees
Standing committees are permanent committees that focus on specific areas of ongoing concern. Common standing committees include those dealing with health and safety, working conditions, or employee benefits. Their long-term nature allows them to delve deeply into issues, develop expertise, and make significant contributions over time.
2. Divisional Committees
Divisional committees focus on specific parts or departments within an organisation. For instance, a divisional committee may be responsible for representing the interests of employees in a specific division, such as production, logistics or sales. They ensure that the unique concerns of each division are adequately represented and addressed within the Works Council.
3. Temporary Committees
Temporary committees are formed to address a particular issue or project for a limited time and consists of members of the Works Council but also employees. Once their task is completed, the committee is disbanded. Examples include committees formed to handle restructuring or moving to a new office location, or the introduction of new technologies. The committee will gather information, and making recommendations to the Works Council, but do not make final decisions themselves.
Key Ingredients for Works Council Committee Efficiency
To be effective, Works Council committees must operate with efficiency and clear goals. Every committee should have a well-defined purpose and clear tasks to accomplish. Without a clear focus, committees risk becoming inefficient or redundant.
Regular, transparent communication between the committees and the Works Council is crucial. This ensures that the work being done by the committees aligns with the broader goals of the Works Council. Committees should regularly assess their progress and adjust their strategies as needed to remain efficient and focused on their objectives.
If you are part of a Works Council or considering setting up committees it is crucial to ensure that they are equipped for success. Contact us today for expert guidance on forming, managing, and improve employee representation or review our available Academy Works Council training courses.
More Information
- Human in Progress Academy: Works Council Courses
- Difference between European Works Council and Works Council Netherlands.
- Works Council Communication Plan: Fostering Employee Engagement.
- Annual Report Works Council Netherlands: Template & Design.
