World dockers’ union representatives meeting in London today unanimously backed the involvement of Unite the Union at the London Gateway terminal.
Speaking from the meeting of the ITF’s dockers’ section committee, which brings together ports union leaders from around the world, ITF president and dockers’ section chair Paddy Crumlin stated: “The situation is simple. London Gateway is a major DP World project. DP World is firmly on record as valuing the contribution of workers and unions. Unite the Union is equally committed to a positive outcome at London Gateway. The company should be talking to them right now about how to achieve that.”
ITF dockers’ section secretary Sharon James added: “There is a clear pathway to successful labour relations at London Gateway. Unite are on that pathway already. The ITF invites DP World to join them.”
The meeting passed the following resolution:
This meeting of the ITF Dockers’ Steering Committee, comprising seventeen dockers’ unions affiliated to the ITF, meeting in London on 17 April 2013;
Notes that London Gateway is a flagship terminal being developed by DP World. Notes that Unite the Union has sought to engage DP World in a meaningful discussion over union recognition at London Gateway, most recently in a meeting with London Gateway management on 16 April 2013, and also on several previous occasions in the past 12 months.
Expresses concern that the management of London Gateway has not opened any constructive discussions with Unite the Union, and that this may be evidence of an intention to exclude trade unions from the terminal.
Notes that on the basis of previous discussions with DP World global management, that the ITF has received assurances that DP World values co-operative relations with trade unions.
Calls for the ITF Dockers’ Section, including all affiliated unions, to support any necessary lawful action to ensure that DP World London Gateway respects the principles of co-operative industrial relations and trade union rights.
Notes that this will require DPW London Gateway to allow full access for Unite the Union to its employees, and to demonstrate good faith in all elements of the union recognition process.
ENDS
For more information contact ITF press officer, Sam Dawson.
Direct line: + 44 (0)20 7940 9260.
Email: dawson_sam@itf.org.uk
International Transport Workers' Federation - ITF:
HEAD OFFICE
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Tel: + 44 (0) 20 7403 2733
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Email: mail@itf.org.uk
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