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Turkish union representation deemed legitimate says court
2 April 2009
A Turkish labour court has found in favour of an ITF-affiliated union, ruling that it can legitimately represent workers employed in Mersin port. One hundred and twenty workers have been dismissed by the employer since they signed up for union.
The court rejected an attempt by transport operator Akan-sel Nakliyat to overturn a decision by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs on Monday. The decision stated that the company’s workers – land-based employees carrying out cargo-handling-related activities - could be classified as potential members of Tumtis. The ITF has endorsed the court ruling.
By the end of last year, following a two-month campaign at Akan-Sel Nakliyat, the union had recruited more than the number of employees required under Turkish law before collective bargaining negotiations can begin. Following the campaign, the company began sacking workers; it states they were dismissed on economic grounds, although it has failed to show evidence of this. Workers have also faced intimidation. Tumtis members have held a picket line protest every day since the dispute began. Meanwhile, health and safety at the site have been compromised by the dismissals; one inexperienced forklift truck driver recently died in an accident on site.
Recent attempts by the union to enter into talks with the company have been met with refusal.
In a letter dated 31 March to the head of the company Volkan Akan, ITF general secretary David Cockroft, said: “I once again urge you to enter a dialogue with the union’s representatives in order to discuss matters of mutual concern.”
He also warned: “To make an appeal against the court ruling would certainly be seen as proof of a very negative attitude towards the workers’ basic rights to freedom of association and collective bargaining.” He sought assurances that the company would not take these steps “in the interests of a positive settlement for all concerned.”
Related press:
1 April 2009
Global union federation applauds Tumtis court win
The ITF (International Transport Workers’ Federation) has...
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