Dockworker at APM Terminal in Callao, Peru
ITF dockers’ section representatives meeting in Perth, Australia have backed the ITF-affiilated Peruvian SUTRAMPORPC union as it begins an indefinite strike today at APM Terminals’ (APMT) North Pier terminal in Callao, Peru’s largest port.
SUTRAMPORPC organises 95 percent of all dockers at the terminal and is taking the action to fight for fair and safe working conditions. The union claims that labour relations have worsened recently despite ongoing collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations, citing a company campaign against the unionised dockworkers which has included several suspensions over ‘ridiculous’ issues.
The dockers’ section, which represents dockworkers’ unions worldwide, called on APMT to respect national and international legislation, engage in proper negotiations with SUTRAMPORPC, end its discrimination against dockers, and agree wage increases in line with company profit.
It also called on global network terminal DP World to respect national legislation in Peru, recognise SUTRAMPORPC and honour the decision of the Peruvian Constitutional Court to agree a CBA with the union.
The section expressed its support for the union and its members and urged all ITF affiliates to provide active solidarity support to SUTRAMPORPC and its members by any and all available lawful means.
ITF president and chair of the ITF dockers’ section, Paddy Crumlin, said: “Our friends and colleagues in Peru have our unanimous support, as they get ready to take indefinite strike action. They have not taken this decision lightly, they have taken it in pursuit of fair and equitable working conditions in the port. We urge APMT to address those inequalities and step back from confrontation.”
