An indefinite strike in the petroleum sector might result in a shortage of fuel when Ceppwawu members go on strike next week, the union said on Friday.
Ceppwawu (Chemical, Energy, Paper, Printing, Wood, and Allied Workers' Union) announced on Thursday that the strike could follow a deadlock in wage negotiations.
Deputy general secretary of Ceppwawu, Keith Jacobs, said they would organise that the technical staff, with expertise to control the machinery in the petroleum sector, join the strike should a settlement not be reached by Monday.
"Should refineries shut down, this will result in fuel shortage," he said.
The union represents about 4 000 people in the petroleum sector, Jacobs said.
Continues Below ↓
Demands include a 10 percent increase across the board and that temporary employees who perform permanent work be made permanent.
The union started negotiations in May along with the Chemical Bargaining Council and the Wood and Paper Bargaining Council, but the negotiations entered into deadlock on June 26 in all the chambers.
Ceppwawu then issued 48-hour notices to all the employer associations.
The strike is expected to take place on July 30 countrywide.
Ceppwawu's membership is drawn from sectors such as petroleum, pharmaceuticals, pulp and paper and saw-milling.
Employers are offering an increment of between six and eight percent. - Sapa
|