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1,000 Tuna Workers Demand Fair Wages in Strike Action
In a significant escalation of labor unrest, approximately 1,000 employees in the tuna canning sector engaged in a strike yesterday, October 29, voicing their concerns over unmet wage conditions. The president of the Confederation of Public and Private Sector Workers (CTSP), Reeaz Chuttoo, met with the striking employees at the cannery and expressed the federation’s support for their cause.
Workers have indicated their intention to continue the strike today, October 30.
The primary grievance of these workers is the failure to have their salaries adjusted in accordance with wage relativity principles.
Chuttoo explained, “When they were employed by a different company, a collective agreement was put in place.
However, it is evident that their current wages have not been adjusted to reflect this agreement.
According to Article 26, all work of equal value must be compensated fairly.”
Further adding to the workers’ frustrations is the discovery that new hires at the plant are receiving higher salaries than long-standing employees.
This disparity has led to feelings of humiliation among the workforce, affecting their morale.
Citing Article 12 (3) of the Health and Safety Act, the employees decided to halt work immediately in protest.
“The ball is now in the management’s court,” Chuttoo stated.
“We have urged them to reassess their wage structures.”
He also pointed out that these issues are not new; since the factory was acquired by a new owner, the CTSP has engaged with the new management to remind them of the importance of respecting wage rights.
While the new director initially assured that all discrepancies would be rectified, no corrective actions have been implemented.
Chuttoo emphasized that management has been restrictive in following the recommendations of the Remuneration Orders (RO), noting that they even claimed that their workers are better paid than stipulated in the RO.
However, a meeting was held on October 29 involving company management, representatives from the Ministry of Labor, and the union.
Management arranged a video conference to discuss the situation with the employees, who clearly stated that they would not return to work until tangible actions are taken.
Management’s response to the strike was that they would consult with their legal department before proceeding.
Chuttoo remained hopeful that employees will receive an updated wage structure and that those entitled to fair compensation will be satisfied.
The CTSP is currently awaiting a response from the company regarding this matter.
In an effort to resolve the situation, Chuttoo is joining a video conference with some employees and officials from the Ministry of Labor to further negotiate with company leadership.
Source: l’Express