Strike crisis continues in Izmir: Cemil Tugay collected trash, DİSK attempted to block him

Approximately 23 thousand workers went on strike following the deadlock in collective bargaining negotiations between the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality and the DİSK Genel-İş Union. The strike, which covers the municipality's subsidiaries İZELMAN, İZENERJİ, and Egeşehir, has entered its fourth day due to the failure to reach an agreement during six months of negotiations.

The strike has caused disruptions, particularly in sanitation services, leading to piles of trash forming in many parts of the city. The Konak Municipality attempted to carry out cleaning work on Kıbrıs Şehitleri Street and the Kordon, but was blocked by striking workers.

Following these developments, Izmir Metropolitan Mayor Cemil Tugay, accompanied by Deputy Mayor Zafer Levent Yıldır, went to the Kordon and began collecting trash. Tugay was supported by local residents and business owners. However, during this time, Ercan Gül, the head of DİSK Genel-İş Branch No. 2, criticized Tugay's action, stating, "We are protecting our bread here."

Cemil Tugay responded by saying, "We respect your right to strike, but this is a job you should not be obstructing. People who are on strike go home. This trash will be removed from here. I will not let you sink Izmir's municipality."

Following the argument, Ercan Gül left the area, while Cemil Tugay and his team continued the trash collection efforts.

News Source : 12punto