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ETF supports PNO in fight for socially acceptable economic measures

11 March 2010

The European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) supports the decision of the Panhellenic Seamen’s Federation (PNO) to join forces with the Greek Trade Union Confederation who called a 24-hour strike across the country. PNO, the umbrella organisation of 14 seafaring unions, will thus protest on Thursday, 11 March against the austerity plan of the Greek government. The ETF conveys to PNO and the whole Greek Trade Union movement its message of solidarity in the fight against short-term and socially unacceptable economic measures. The ETF asks for a realistic and well balanced plan without strangling the Greek economic activity and affecting the most vulnerable segments of society.

ETF ASKS FOR REALISTIC AND SOCIAL
RECOVERY PLAN FOR GREECE

The austerity plan of the Greek government comprises measures like radical cuts in wages and pensions, and large scale privatisation of public companies. The plan puts the burden unevenly on working people and increases the economic instability and social decline. Against this background, ETF considers that the 24-hour strike is more than justified. The ETF acknowledges that the current economic situation in Greece asks for decisive decisions but is convinced that a more balanced plan with a long-term vision and active involvement of trade unions will bring the necessary economic and social stability, support growth and employment, and avoid social dumping.

The ETF reiterates its support and solidarity with its members in their fight for safeguarding fundamental social rights, including the right to pensions and to a fair income.  

For further information, please contact Philippe Alfonso, the ETF Political Secretary for Maritime Transport (Tel: +32 (0)2 285 45 84; p.alfonso@etf-europe.org)

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