Sicartsa strikers defy order to return to work

Sicartsa strikers defy order to return to work

Despite an order by the Conciliatory Council to return to work, the 2'000 workers at Sicartsa steel mill remained on strike as of Wednesday (August 10). The strike was declared illegal and the workers were ordered to return to work. Both the Mine Workers Union as well as the Steelworkers Union rejected the order. Labor Minister Francisco Salazar said the union demands made to the company were not justified and that if they did not return to work, could risk losing their contract. Still the strike continues and the mine workers have indicated that they may strike at other companies where they are represented. The union is protesting six alleged contract violations including transportation and medical issues. In addition, they are demanding the company rehire seven workers who were terminated. The workers could decide to take the case to arbitration if they choose to continue striking. The union is currently appealing the Council's decision and could choose to stagger work stoppages across the country if they lose the appeal. The union is further mulling a decision to stage a nationwide strike of its 250'000 members as a last resort measure.