Sicily approves 8 million euro amendment for forestry workers

The Sicilian Regional Assembly's Budget Commission has approved an 8 million euro amendment aimed at strengthening forestry activities and increasing working days for forest operators. The funds, which stem from savings due to recent retirements, are intended to bolster forest maintenance, environmental protection, and wildfire prevention efforts.

According to regional deputy Carlo Auteri and Uila Sicilia General Secretary Enzo Savarino, the amendment will increase the number of working days for various categories of forest workers. Specifically, the measure aims to raise the working days for certain groups to 179, 129, and 106, respectively.

While labor representatives welcomed the progress, Savarino noted that significant challenges remain, including an aging workforce and staff shortages within the Sicilian forestry sector. The union continues to advocate for broader reforms focused on generational turnover and increased staffing levels.