ITF calls for protection for Honduran union leader following attack
20 September 2013
The ITF has acted to assure the safety of a Honduran trade union leader following an attack at his home an d a series of threats on his life. A global campaign has been launched in a bid to secure protection for Victor Crespo, general secretary of the Sindicato Gremial de Trabajadores del Muelle (SGTM).
Armed assailan ts attempted to break down the door of Crespo's house on 14 September, an d only left when they were disturbed by neighours.
The incident follows several an onymous death threats relating to Crespo's leadership of SGTM members in requesting a collective bargaining agreement with the stevedoring compan ies at the port of Puerto Cortés.
ICTSI (International Container Terminal Services, Inc) won a concession to operate the port in February.
Crespo is now being kept in a safe place an d the Honduran police, president, the ILO (International Labour Organ ization) an d ICTSI have all been contacted an d alerted. With the support of LabourStart the ITF an d SGTM have begun an e-campaign calling on the president to provide police protection for Crespo an d give assuran ces about workers being able to exercise their right to collective bargaining.
ITF Americas regional secretary Antonio Fritz commented: “This was a shameful an d cowardly attack that we believe is linked to the union’s legitimate an d lawful request for a collective bargaining contract which, despite being repeatedly refused by the employers, it is certain to secure. We have no doubt that Victor is in dan ger of his life, an d that the members of his union are also at risk. We are doing everything possible to defend him an d them, but it is also time for the Honduran government an d authorities to fulfil their obligations too.”
Support the campaign to ensure Victor Crespo’s safety.
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