In Indonesia's key Jakarta International Container Terminal (JICT) workers have expressed concern over plans to extend the terminal's concession, which runs out in 2019, to HPH.
The workers' union there claims the the port would be more profitable for the people of Indonesia if run by the government. They also say the award process needs to be more transparent and want consultations with the government before any final decision is made. They protested outside Indonesia’s State Palace earlier this month for job security and workers’ welfare and in the past couple of days, the ITF has been advised that the union believes there could be retaliation against union leaders.
“The situation is unacceptable. We demand that workers have access to information and a say in their future and that union leaders are not targeted for exercising their right to protest,” said ILWU vice-president and ITF dockers section vice chair Ray Familathe.
Meanwhile in Panama, although ITF-affiliated unions are legally recognised as the most representative of workers at HPH's Panama Ports Company (PPC) an alternative company-backed union has appealed to Panama's labour minister. ITF cited ongoing concerns over Freedom of Association for PPC workers, while legitimate questions have been raised over tactics used by the alternative union in their appeal to the minister.
"HPH has said they will work with whoever the Government declares, but the ITF believes that they need to work with the union that really represents workers. The ITF will keep a close eye on proceedings," said Familathe.
“Indonesia and Panama have both been highlighted as strategic countries for the ITF in the coming four years and affiliates will keep a close eye on developments in both countries," he concluided.
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