Romanian PSD Leader Blames Interim PM for Salary Law Stalemate

Sorin Grindeanu, a leader of Romania's Social Democratic Party (PSD), has sharply criticized interim Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan, blaming him for the stalled negotiations on a new unified salary law. Grindeanu asserted that the executive branch failed to produce a draft acceptable to both governing parties and social partners.

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The interest of Romania cannot be separated from the interest of its citizens. Teachers, doctors, employees who keep all public services running are a priority. They are part of Romania's interest.

"The interest of Romania cannot be separated from the interest of its citizens," Grindeanu stated on Facebook. He emphasized that professionals like doctors and teachers, who ensure public services function, are a priority and integral to Romania's national interest. He argued that the European Union's Recovery and Resilience Facility (PNRR) should not be used as a pretext to compel Parliament to pass any law, regardless of its content or consequences.

Grindeanu accused Bolojan's government of incompetence, claiming they were "incapable" of creating a fair law and were attempting to shift blame. He highlighted that the current draft lacks consensus within government ministries and among major trade union confederations. Furthermore, he stated it violates agreements made by political parties and even displeases the European Commission.

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PNRR cannot be used as an argument to ask Parliament to vote on ANY law, regardless of how it is made and what effects it produces.

"We are facing the same pattern we have seen throughout Mr. Bolojan's governance: there is no dialogue, and the burden is placed on the people," Grindeanu said. He criticized the government's approach, where reforms or deficit targets are used as excuses for citizens to lose out, with the "bill paid by Romanians."

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The government had a very simple obligation: to make a good, equitable law that would be accepted by society. It was incapable of doing so, and now it tries to turn its own incompetence into an exclusive fault of others.

While affirming the PSD's support for reforms and meeting PNRR targets, Grindeanu insisted on a version of the salary law that corrects existing imbalances. "Reforms are made for Romanians, not against them, Mr. Bolojan!" he concluded, demanding a law that addresses inequities rather than exacerbating them.

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We are facing the same pattern we have seen throughout Mr. Bolojan's governance: there is no dialogue, and the burden is placed on the people.