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Statement on ILO Convention 137
To all ITF affiliated Dockers unions
25 August 2005
Dear Friends,
URGENT: DEFEND ILO Convention 137 ON DOCKWORK
We are writing to ask all IT affiliated Dockers unions to support the FNV Bondgenoten Netherlands in their campaign against the Dutch governments plans to de-ratify (denounce) ILO Convention 137. This is a backwards step that could have negative consequences for unions around the world.
We are requesting that unions send a short message of solidarity to the FNV Bondgenoten either by e-mail or fax , for them to take to the Dutch National Parliament, which we understand is going to meet on 31 August 2005 to vote on this issue.
You will have received previous communications from the ITF on this very serious matter, including circular No.27/D.4.2004, which have set out the background to the situation.
If possible, could you please address a message to the Dutch Government and Parliament, including the two points below. This message should be e-mailed or faxed to Niek Stam at the FNV Bondgenoten as soon as possible (email: niekstam@bg.fnv.nl ; fax: 0031 102 335 218):
1.ILO Convention 137 is an important instrument to encourage technological development while involving consultation between employers and employees, and the system of registration of dockers laid down in the convention is crucial in order to maintain safety and social standards. De-ratification of the Convention would be an unnecessary attack on the fundamental rights of dockers.
2.The FNV Bondgenoten does not stand alone in its fight to defend dockers rights and has the support of the ITF family around the world.
We very much hope that you will be able to show solidarity with our brothers and sisters in the Netherlands and provide this much needed political and moral support. Thank you for your help.
Yours fraternally,
Frank Leys
Secretary, Dockers Section
