The Cabinet of Ministers has raised the booking limit to 75% of employees: who is affected

2 April 2025 12:50

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has raised the reservation limit for workers of critical utility infrastructure to 75%. This was reported by the Ministry of Communities and Territories Development, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports

The new decision is intended to ensure the stable operation of heating, water supply and other key services in wartime. How will this affect utilities and why did the changes become necessary? Let’s analyze the details.

What does the resolution provide for?

The new resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers applies to enterprises responsible for heat supply, water supply, sewage and solid waste disposal.

Previously, the maximum reservation percentage was 50%, but now it has been increased to 75%.

In addition, the government has eased the requirements for the salary level of employees who can be booked, which simplifies the process for companies.

“Raising the reservation rate to 75% will help reduce staff shortages and guarantee the uninterrupted operation of critical facilities,” the Cabinet of Ministers explained.

Since April 1, old reservations have become invalid, and new applications are processed through the Diia portal within 72 hours, the Ministry of Economy reported.

Which businesses are covered by the resolution?

The new rules apply to:

  • heat supply companies;
  • water supply and sewerage companies;
  • companies engaged in the removal of solid waste.

This decision is aimed at strengthening the staffing of the utility sector and minimizing the risks to its stable operation during martial law.

Why is it important?

Utilities in Ukraine are facing an acute shortage of employees due to the war and mobilization.

“On the ground, enterprises often operate at the limit of their capabilities due to staff shortages,” said Deputy Minister of Community and Territorial Development Kostyantyn Kovalchuk.

According to him, without experienced specialists, fitters, operators and a sufficient number of repair teams, it becomes extremely difficult to keep the networks in good condition.

Increasing the reservation rate to 75% will help retain experienced professionals who ensure the functioning of critical infrastructure. This is especially important in wartime, when the stability of public utilities is not only a matter of comfort but also of security.

How does the new system work?

Starting from April 1, 2025, all previous bookings made under the old rules will be invalid. Companies that managed to update their criticality status and rebook employees received a reprieve. The rest must submit new applications through Diia.

Benefits and challenges

The new decree has several advantages:

  • Staff retention. Businesses will be able to retain up to 75% of their employees, which will reduce the risk of system shutdowns.
  • Flexibility. The relaxation of salary requirements expands the number of people who can be booked.
  • Speed. Digitalization through Diia speeds up the process.

However, questions remain: will there be enough resources to implement the changes and how will this affect mobilization in other sectors? The government has not yet commented on these aspects.

Остафійчук Ярослав
Editor

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