In accordance with the proposal of Lodewijk Asscher, Dutch Minister of Social Affairs and Employment, a working knowledge of Dutch will be required for high-risk jobs from 1 July 2013 in the Netherlands.
Speaking the language would help to reduce serious occupational accidents, employees could work under safer conditions and in case of emergency it would result in a more effective communication which is of utmost importance.
The number of employees from Member States that have recently joined the European Union has increased. While the Dutch government’s measure ensures safe working conditions, it also makes it more difficult for foreign employees to find a job at the labour market.
The Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment will regularly examine whether the employees meet the necessary language requirements, if not penalty may be imposed.