`Die-in' highlights war casualties

BRISBANE — Around 50 people gathered in the Queens Street Mall on November 16 for a “die-in” to show solidarity with the Afghan people killed by US bombs. Chalk lines were drawn around their bodies to signify the slaughtered civilians.

Speakers condemned the US war and called for withdrawal of US and allied forces and an end to the bombing. The protest was organised by the Network Opposing War and Racism. The next major rally will be on Sunday December 9, 3pm, in the Roma Street Forum. Phone (07) 3831 2644 for more information.

Garbos strike and march

BRISBANE — Garbage collectors went on strike on November 12. Transport Workers Union members marched on city hall. Their jobs and rates of pay are under threat from a new eight-year contract signed between the Brisbane City Council and SITA Environmental Solutions (formerly Pacific Waste Management).

Under the deal, the garbos' pay would be reduced from up to $20 per hour to $17.50. After the Industrial Relations Commission ordered the workers back to work, the TWU warned it could pursue further protected industrial action as the dispute continues.

TWU state secretary Hughie Williams attacked Lord Mayor Jim Soorley for being inhumane, out of touch and uninformed. The Australian Metal Workers Union is threatening to have Soorley expelled from the ALP because of his industrial relations policies.

From Green Left Weekly, November 21, 2001.
Visit the Green Left Weekly home page.

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