Why are Vatican workers being asked to repay salaries from the Covid-19 period?

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Vatican Workers Asked to Repay Covid-19 Salaries Due to Lack of Furlough Schemes

Vatican Museums employees are being required to repay salaries received during the Covid-19 pandemic because Vatican labour legislation does not include provisions for furlough schemes. This situation arose because the Vatican Museums experienced closures during the pandemic, rendering some staff inactive.
Absence of Furlough Legislation

The core reason for the salary repayment demand lies in the absence of furlough schemes within the Vatican's labour laws. Unlike many other jurisdictions that implemented such schemes to support workers during economic downturns or mandated closures, the Vatican's legal framework does not offer this mechanism. Consequently, when the Vatican Museums were closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the salaries paid to inactive staff are now being considered for repayment.
Impact of Museum Closures

The Covid-19 pandemic led to the closure of the Vatican Museums, a significant global tourist attraction. This closure meant that many staff members, primarily museum attendants, were unable to perform their regular duties. Without a legal framework for furloughs, the administration is reportedly seeking the return of wages paid during this period of inactivity.
Labour Dispute Over Conditions

This issue is part of a broader labour dispute involving 49 Vatican Museums employees who have raised concerns about their working conditions. Their petition to the Vatican's "Governatorato" highlights issues such as extra work hours paid at lower rates and insufficient health and safety provisions. The demand for salary repayment is another point of contention within this ongoing dispute, which could potentially escalate to a Vatican Court if conciliation fails.

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Why are Vatican workers being asked to repay salaries from the Covid-19 period?

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