European dockers victory shows global tide turning against “pirate capitalism”
The Maritime Union says a major Union victory in Europe for job security for port workers signals a turning of the tide in the global maritime industry.
The European Parliament voted overwhelmingly on 18 January 2006 to throw out a plan to extend corporate control over European ports.
On 16 January, 6000 dockers from 16 European countries mounted a strong protest against the plan in Strasbourg, France, in defence of jobs, working conditions, health and safety, and the quality of port services.
Maritime Union General Secretary Trevor Hanson says it is a major victory that was gained by an active campaign by workers – and which has implications for the New Zealand industry.