Spain to extend furlough schemes by three months until Sept. 30

Spain is set to extend until Sept. 30 national furlough schemes aimed at mitigating the effect of the coronavirus lockdown under a government agreement with labour unions and the main employers’ association, the labour ministry said on Thursday. Hard-hit sectors like hospitality will receive the most support, though other industries not yet able to return to normal activity will also be included. Originally due to expire on June 30, the current system of public aid, known as known as ERTEs, had been linked to Spain’s state of emergency, which ended on June 21. “Measures to protect workers and businesses will be adapted to the current context in order to continue supporting the most affected sectors,” the ministry said. The extension will be approved at a cabinet meeting on Friday.