Romanian Min Says Tourism Ministry Allocated Funds For Lifeguards’ Salaries
Sources within the government said Udrea called on Prime Minister Emil Boc, before the government meeting on June 10, to adopt a decision meant to assign 9 million lei (EUR1=RON4.1963) from the government’s reserve fund in order to support lifeguards’ activity.
The Romanian Lifeguards’ Association vice-president Adrian Rapa said on June 3 that lifeguards in Mamaia will no longer attempt to rescue people in danger of drowning, as they did not receive their pay from the government.
Rapa pointed out that lifeguards can no longer receive aid from the Constanta City Hall like in previous years and thus turn to the government for funds needed to pay the around 120 lifeguards in Mamaia and Constanta. Rapa added the situation in the other Black Sea resorts is similar.
Lifeguards faced financial difficulties last year as well. In July 2008, they went on a go-slow strike and threatened to start a general strike over unpaid salaries, but the situation was resolved before they left the beach.