The Norwegian Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, Robert Eriksson, visited Ulstein Group on 30 June. Included in the visit was a trip on board Ulstein’s latest newbuild, the subsea vessel ‘Island Performer’.

The maritime cluster and the Agreement on a More Inclusive Working Life (IA agreement) were two of the main topics.

“Through targeted efforts, we have succeeded in reducing work absence with 50 per cent,” commented HR director Torild Bugge.

Ulstein decided to participate in the IA Agreement in 2002, with a goal to reduce sick leave with 20 per cent.

The IA Agreement is an instrument aimed at preventing sick leave, increasing focus on job presence and preventing “expulsion” and increasing recruitment to working life of persons who do not have established employment. Through the agreement, focus has been placed on reducing sickness absence and the use of disability pensions, increasing the retirement age and ensuring the recruitment of people with impaired functioning capacity and other vulnerable groups to the employment market.

Press Release, July 01, 2014