Port workers step up protests

By Athena Karsera

LARNACA port workers yesterday stepped up their industrial action on the third day of an indefinite strike in protest at their uncertain future. Unions, however, expressed hope for a solution after initial government responses.

The 105 workers and 45 stevedores yesterday made good on an earlier threat to block the roundabout outside the harbour for periods of 15 minutes between 9 and 11am.

Enjoying the backing of the Larnaca Harbour Stevedores Association as well as of major unions Sek Peo and Deok, protestors continued to block the entrance to the harbour with loading machinery for the second day running.

Without giving further details, union representatives yesterday said that more measures would follow.

They did, however, confirm receipt of a fax from Labour Minister Andreas Moushiouttas, which they said they would study, and act in accordance with its contents.

They said the minister’s response was seen as positive, and hoped that the issue would be resolved soon, because “a solution depends on them (the government) and not on us.”

Meanwhile, Communications Minister Leontios Ierodiaconou yesterday said that a House committee would soon be meeting to address the issue.

Speaking after a meeting of the Council of Ministers, Ierodiaconou said the Cabinet had approved a proposal eight months ago that would transform the port into a tourist harbour, providing more work for dockers.

The harbour workers, who complain of vast underemployment, are protesting a delay in voluntary redundancy packages for those willing to leave their posts.

They also want the implementation of a Development Committee decision to modernise the harbour, which would guarantee workers and stevedores another two to four years of employment. More working hours are also being demanded.

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