General Workers Union to take action

Source: Nowlebanon.com, 16-04-2008
The General Workers Union called on the government to address the issue of raising minimum wages and correcting wages to meet rising living costs across Lebanon, saying the government is "directly concerned" in the plights of workers and employers. The GWU called on the government to "play its role as the sole side responsible for social stability and security by easing the costs of living and supporting the purchasing power of citizens." To do this, the GWU said the government should fix gasoline prices at 20,000 LL per 20 liters, diesel prices at 15,000 LL per 20 liters and gas for household use at 15,000 LL.
The GWU also called for the decrease of consumer-goods prices, including bread; amending mobile phone bills; and reducing "burdens on wages" by lifting indirect taxes, which would reduce the cost of services and repair wages that have been eroded by price rises and inflation.
The GWU specifically proposed raising minimum wages to 960,000 LL, which would ensure the correction of wages by 63.3 %, calling for the government to end its current policy and indifference to the stifling crisis in livelihood.
In an executive board meeting on Wednesday, the union called for a general strike on May 7, saying that it would be a "turning point" in the history of labor movements, as the crisis had become "intolerable."
The union said, "We also invite all trade unions, federations, teachers syndicates in the private sector, students, professors and all of women, youth and national societies to participate in the strike to confront the policies of this government," which the GWU also accused of effecting forced immigration.
"We must remind them of their responsibilities," the union said.
The General Workers Union reiterated that it does not seek to "fabricate a problem with the government," which, they said, had forced them into this position by neglecting their duties in dealing with economic issues.