Our Meetings with Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Mr. Batuhan Mumcu

OUR MEETINGS WITH DEPUTY MINISTER OF CULTURE AND TOURISM MR. BATUHAN MUMCU

As Kültür Emekçileri Sendikası (Cultural Workers' Union), our meetings with Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Mr. Batuhan Mumcu regarding improvements to the salaries of artists and technical personnel, the incorporation of across-the-board pay rises into base salaries, and the seniority adjustment issues of artists who transferred from contract position 4B to permanent position 4A took place on 20.01.2025.

The agenda items discussed in the meetings:

1- Pay Rise: A common understanding was reached on the subject of improvements to the salaries of artists and technical personnel (duty allowance). However, it was understood that this improvement would not be possible in the short term due to austerity measures.

2- Across-the-Board Pay Rise (Incentive and Bonus): Our demand that across-the-board pay rises be incorporated into base salaries and that incentive and bonus amounts be at the level of salaries was raised. Mr. Batuhan Mumcu stated that he would discuss this matter with the Minister of Labour and Social Security and would strive for a swift resolution.

3- Seniority Adjustment Issue for Artists Who Transferred from Position 4B to 4A: Regarding the legal arrangements for retroactive seniority adjustment requests following the position change, he stated he would likewise consult the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.

4- Staffing Level Imbalance Between Orchestras: Discussions were held on evening out the staffing level imbalance between orchestras in a positive direction.

5- Pay Gap Between Domestic and Foreign Orchestra Conductors and Soloists: The issue that domestic conductors and soloists receive ten times less pay than foreign artists was raised.

6- Incentive Bonus Criteria and Attendance Rate Percentages: We stated that our union plans to pursue legal action on this matter. It was emphasised that, although the criteria of the General Directorates are changed every year, they have no legal basis and are inconsistent with previous court rulings.

7- Artist Recruitment Examination by the General Directorate of State Opera and Ballet: Warnings were raised that the examination was not in compliance with the relevant regulations and an investigation was requested.

8- Dösimm Share Practice Applied by the General Directorate of Fine Arts: The cancellation of this practice was requested. Mr. Batuhan Mumcu stated that he would examine the issue with the relevant units and seek a solution.

9- Opening of Düzce State Theatre: It was communicated to us that the necessary measures have been taken regarding the opening of the theatre and that temporary assignments will be terminated once the theatre begins operations.

Kültür Emekçileri Sendikası (Cultural Workers' Union)