The document discusses the challenges faced by professionals in the conservation and restoration sector in Portugal, particularly regarding low remuneration levels. Surveys conducted by the Professional Association of Conservators-Restorers (ARP) in 2020 and 2022 highlighted the disparity between the skills possessed by professionals and their inadequate pay, leading to a high rate of professionals leaving the field. The surveys aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the sector’s dynamics, emphasising the need for improved remuneration to retain skilled workers.
Efforts are being made to address this issue, with proposals for establishing a minimum remuneration standard for professionals in the market, as defined by ARP. The document references initiatives in other economic sectors, such as agreements on minimum salary levels, to demonstrate the importance of fair remuneration in retaining qualified professionals. Collaboration between the government, employers, and unions is crucial to ensure the sustainability of the conservation and restoration sector and prevent a shortage of skilled workers in the future.
The document also mentions a commitment by the current government and employer confederations to increase average income by about 20% between 2022 and 2026. This commitment underscores the recognition that investing in the professional and remunerative development of workers yields benefits for companies.
