The planned strike in Tunisia's fuel transport sector is set to proceed as scheduled on September 23-24, according to Salouene Smiri, deputy secretary general of the Tunisian General Labor Union (UGTT). The strike, which was announced last month, is in response to unresolved issues regarding workers' rights and benefits. Smiri stated that the union had formally notified all relevant parties, including the National Chamber of Dangerous Goods Transport, the Ministries of Social Affairs and Transport, and the General Labor Inspection.
The main point of contention, according to Smiri, is the settlement of workers' rights with the National Social Security Fund (CNSS) and the delayed payment of certain agreed-upon allowances. He noted that an acknowledgment of receipt had been sent to the concerned parties after submitting the strike notice. Smiri also mentioned that the second payment for social coverage credits for the year 2022 had been made the previous week.
A meeting is set to take place on September 22 between the concerned unions, which have expressed willingness to cancel the strike if an agreement can be reached. The agreement would need to balance the financial stability of companies with the protection of workers' rights. Smiri made these statements during an appearance on the radio show "Ahla Sbeh" on September 22.
The UGTT had submitted a formal notice of the strike nearly a month ago. According to Smiri, this notice was sent to all relevant parties, ensuring that they were informed of the planned action. The strike is set to affect the transport of hydrocarbons in Tunisia.
Smiri emphasized that the strike remains legal and will proceed unless an agreement is reached. The union is pressing for the resolution of workers' rights issues, including payments from the CNSS and delayed allowances. The situation remains tense as the strike's impact on fuel supplies and the broader economy could be significant.
The Tunisian government and relevant authorities have not made an official statement regarding the strike or potential negotiations. However, Smiri's comments suggest that there is still room for dialogue and a possible resolution. The outcome of the meeting between unions and concerned parties will be crucial in determining the next steps.
The strike's impact on Tunisia's economy and fuel supplies remains to be seen. With the strike set to begin on September 23, all eyes are on the negotiations between the UGTT and relevant authorities. A resolution could avert potential shortages and economic disruption.
Key points
- The strike in Tunisia's fuel transport sector is set to proceed on September 23-24.
- The main issues driving the strike are related to workers' rights and benefits.
- A meeting between unions and concerned parties may lead to a resolution and the cancellation of the strike.
