In Westland, the heart of Dutch horticulture, an employer from sectors such as greenhouse construction or flower export sometimes refuses the transitional compensation. Start with a formal demand by registered mail. State the dismissal date, your years of service with Westland companies and the calculated amount based on the collective labour agreement for horticulture. No response within 14 days? File a request with the subdistrict court in The Hague within two months after dismissal, in accordance with Article 7:686a of the Dutch Civil Code (BW).
The subdistrict court examines the statutory grounds and may order the employer – often a family business in 's-Gravenzande or Monster – to pay, plus statutory interest and costs of proceedings. Evidence is crucial: employment contract, payslips from Westland greenhouses and dismissal letter. In a settlement agreement (VSO), it must explicitly state that no compensation applies, otherwise your right remains, even after seasonal dismissal.
From 2025, the digital counter of the Judiciary offers faster procedures, ideal for busy Westland entrepreneurs. Success rate is around 80% for clear claims, such as sudden company takeovers in Naaldwijk. Costs: court fee €85 for simple cases, with a high chance of reimbursement by the employer.
Consider free mediation via the Juridisch Loket in The Hague or Werkfeest Westland for regional advice. In case of urgent financial need due to idle greenhouses, you can apply for an interim measure. Document everything carefully – from collective labour agreement to witness statements – to stand strong before the judge.