Call for solidarity with dockers in the Maldives

Call for solidarity with dockers in the Maldives

http://www.itfglobal.org/news-online/index.cfm/newsdetail/8199

23/11/2012

ITF affiliates are responding to a call for solidarity with dockers in the Maldives, whose right to freedom of association is being repressed.

The dockers, represented by the ITF-affiliated Maldives Port Workers’ Union (MPWU), have reported anti-union activities by their employer Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), including the dismissal of several workers and union leaders.

The ITF is calling on the president of the Maldives to take action by instructing the management of the state-owned MPL to enter into good faith dialogue with the union so that their legitimate grievances can be addressed. The MPWU is concerned that assurances that the matter would be dealt with from the president, in response to a letter from ITF general secretary David Cockroft, have yet to be put into practice.

So far, unions in a range of countries, including Germany, Liberia, Mauritius and Mexico have sent out protest letters and messages of solidarity.

Stephen Cotton, ITF acting general secretary said: “The ITF will go ahead with its campaign to mobilise its affiliates worldwide to pressurise the Maldivian government so that its starts an immediate dialogue with the MPWU. This should be aimed at resolving the dispute by reinstating the dismissed union office bearers and activists, recognising the union and negotiating to establish decent wages and working conditions in the ports.”

To send a protest letter and message of solidarity, visit: http://www.itfglobal.org/solidarity/solidarity-3620.cfm