Defend dockers’ rights

Liverpool dock workers at Seaforth container terminal will be taking part in an international day of action tomorrow (July 7).

The day of action has been called by the International Transport Federation (ITF), the International Dockworkers Council (IDC) and the European Transport Federation (ETF) in protest against governments’ and employers’ attacks on pay, job security and working terms and conditions of dock workers.

Under the slogan ‘Defend Dockers Rights’ the global day of union action is an opportunity for port workers to call for improved health and safety in the workplace, an end to job deregulation, respect for bargaining rights and collective agreements, as well as the need for universal labour standards, and the concerns over the automation processes in terminals.

Over 100 Liverpool dock workers, members of Unite, will be attending a meeting at Seaforth container terminal from 8am until 9am tomorrow (July 7). The meeting will discuss the five key areas of the campaign – automation, health and safety, precarious working, respect for collective bargaining and labour standards – and how these impact on Liverpool dock workers.

“This is the first time the worldwide dock workers movement will carry out a collective action which highlights the contribution of dock workers to the world economy, and draws attention to the professional risks involved in their work,” said Unite regional officer Terry Teague.

“This action will display the resolve of dock workers to defend not only the security of their jobs, but also their working conditions, dignity, and collective bargaining power. Unite is proud to be supporting the day of action.”