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ETF 2009 Congress to be held in Ponta Delgada, Azores

19 May 2009

The European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) is organising its third Congress from 27 to 29 May 2009 in Ponta Delgada, Azores.

The ETF 2009 Congress, entitled “Strong Unions for Sustainable Transport” will bring together over 450 ETF affiliated unionists, from 40 European countries, for a three day event held in Teatro Micaelense, where timely issues such as sustainable transport and strong unions will be discussed within the context of the current financial crisis. Delegates will have the opportunity to exchange new ideas with their peers, and learn about union building in times of economic hardship. Since workers’ rights are one of the first things to be sacrificed during times of fiscal turmoil, the theme of the ETF 2009 Congress is especially appropriate.

Before the commencement of the general 2009 Congress, on 25 May, the ETF’s Management and Executive Committees will meet to discuss the last details for Congress. A Women Transport Workers’ Conference will also be held before Congress, on 26 May. This meeting will deal with matters relating specifically to women in transport and the adoption of an Action Plan for the next four years mandate.

Eduardo Chagas, ETF General Secretary said: “This year’s Congress is especially important given the dire financial circumstances. We are seeing a worrying trend of exploitation and sacking of workers in the Transport sector. It is important that we utilise this Congress to focus on building strong unions that can effectively retaliate against these disturbing trends that are present both in times of crisis and growth so that worker’s rights are protected and preserved. The financial crisis is not the fault of the workers, so why should they have to pay?  The future of the Transport sector depends on strong unions, and I am certain that the ETF 2009 Congress will help our affiliates to continue their fight to obtain better working and living conditions for their members, and a sustainable transport industry which recognizes and values its work force.“

For further information, please contact Sarah Williams at s.williams@etf-europe.org [+32/470/93.05.90]

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