On February 5, workers in the two factories in the free-trade zone in Ouanaminthe, north Haiti, reached an agreement with the Grupo M company that runs the zone to resolve a seven-month dispute. In June, more than 350 workers, including all known leaders of the newly formed Sokowa union, were sacked from the two Levis factories. Under the agreement, five union leaders will be reinstated immediately, and another 150 workers will be progressively rehired. Grupo M will officially recognise the union, and guarantees never to use armed gangs or security guards to intervene in labour disputes again. Previously, workers had been beaten and stripped topless while interrogated by management. Sokowa representatives say they are waiting for the agreement to be implemented before celebrating.

From Green Left Weekly, February 16, 2005.
Visit the Green Left Weekly home page.

Tools

• Bookmark This Page
• Print This Page