Academic Union of Ministerial Staff

The Academic Union of Ministerial Staff (Félag háskólamenntaðra starfsmanna Stjórnarráðsins, or FHSS) is a trade union for those who have completed a university degree from a recognized university and are subject to the following conditions:

• Work for government offices or a similar institution,
• Move temporarily to work on other projects for the government,
• Work within special working structures and ministerial institutions within the purview of the laws of the government of Iceland,
• Work for adjudication committees in the administration,
• Work for Fjársýsla ríkisins or Hagstofa Íslands.

The union provides a variety of services that members can apply for at the union's office. These services include terms and rights, interpretation of wage agreements, resolution of disputes related to work, negotiation and support for retirement.

Regarding wage agreements, common questions include whether payments are being made in accordance with the correct wage rate and about rights related to illness and leave. The FHSS office can assist with the calculation of the correct salary and collection, if necessary. Upon request, the FHSS office can also provide legal advice on matters that fall within a trade union's scope. The FHSS office can also provide members with instructions regarding job searching and guidance on registering for unemployment.

The Academic Union of Ministerial Staff (FHSS) belongs to the Icelandic Confederation of University Graduates (BHM) and members of FHSS have access to various grants and benefits related to BHM. For example, regarding financial assistance for health care or long-term absence from work due to illness. BHM also runs funds that support vocational and continuing education. Finally, members of FHSS enjoy membership to the BHM Vacation Fund, which offers, for example, the possibility of booking holiday houses and other benefits and discounts related to vacation and travel.

Members of FHSS elect the board of directors at the union’s annual general meeting. In addition to the chairman, the board consists of 4 members and 2 deputies.

The union runs a service office at Borgartún 6 in Reykjavík, which handles all daily administration. There you will find consultants who can guide members in matters that arise and are related to a person's work.

You can send the office a written inquiry for general questions or create a formal service request for extensive or sensitive matters. You can also book a call with a consultant.

In addition, you can call 595 5165 or visit Borgartún 6 every working day from 9-12 and 13-16.