Portside

Dear brothers,

Rights are gained and never given, and no right is lost as long as there is a demand.

La-Farge company has gone too far and crossed all limits in its violations against workers of Kerbala cement factory in which it is investing. Its un-human attitude against workers is a violation to all International labor standards; and especially the PS2, and the agreement La-Farge signed with BWI.

There are some supporters of the company’s policy who claim that its management is well connected and supported by some influential political and religious leaders in Iraq, and that there are no government entities nor any labor organizations that could affect what it does. Those voices are for a bunch on hypocrites who sold their ethics and conscience to the company for a bunch of dollars, and betrayed their brothers and fellow Iraqis who work with the company.

Your federation - the GFWUI - and your construction and wood workers union is here to support you and is always in solidarity with you. Your struggle is the struggle of all workers.

The company’s management took harsh actions against workers lately, especially after you all demanded improvement in the work environment, better workers conditions, health and safety, and called for equality among workers. Its reaction was by taking disciplinary actions against some brothers and transferring them to the development and support department, while referring others to investigations.

Our hero brothers, you will seize your rights through a strong united position. We tried to meet with the management to negotiate but they denied any attempts. They were determined in their position because they are a colonial and slavery company rather than investor. Damn this investment that abuses workers, violates their essential rights and humiliates them.

We will remain by your side to support you. Long live your heroic workers struggle. Down with slavery and exploitation.

GFWUI

[translation provided by Solidarity Center]