Mine workers in revolt in İliç, Erzincan: A mass layoff is underway

Following the dismissal of 187 workers by the Anagold Mining company in the İliç district of Erzincan, the subcontractor firm Çiftay has also applied to the Ministry of Labor and Social Security to lay off 440 workers.

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Mine workers in revolt in İliç, Erzincan: A mass layoff is underway

The crisis that began with the dismissal of 187 workers by Anagold Mining, which operates in the İliç district of Erzincan, is growing as the subcontractor firm Çiftay has also filed an application to lay off 440 workers.

The dismissed miners have been trying to make their voices heard by organizing protests both at the mine site and in front of the Turkey Mine Workers' Union (Türkiye Maden-İş Sendikası) since August 19.

In an information note sent to the workers by Anagold Mining, it was stated that mandatory decisions had to be taken during this difficult process following the landslide on February 13, which resulted in the loss of 9 workers' lives.

While the company pledged to pay severance to the workers who became unemployed after the disaster, this decision was met with backlash from the workers.

THE MINERS' REVOLT

The workers stated that the layoffs were unjust and that the mining company must fulfill its responsibilities.

The Independent Mine Workers' Union (Bağımsız Maden İşçileri Sendikası) stated that they find the layoffs unacceptable, declaring, "Anagold cannot cover its debts to the people and nature of İliç with short-term salary payments." The union emphasized that the firm has generated vast wealth in İliç and is obligated to keep its promises.

The dismissed miners are demanding that the layoff decision be reversed through their protests at the mine site and in front of the Turkey Mine Workers' Union. The workers state that they want their grievances addressed as soon as possible and that they will continue their struggle.

WHAT HAPPENED?

On February 13 at 14:28, a landslide occurred in a large area where the Çöpler Gold Mine, owned by the Anagold company, is located in the İliç district of Erzincan. Approximately 10 million cubic meters of soil flowed rapidly down from a 200-meter slope.

Minister of Interior Ali Yerlikaya stated that the soil in question moved 800 meters. At least 9 workers were trapped under the sliding soil. Upon notification, Erzincan Gendarmerie, AFAD, and medical teams were dispatched to the region. Statements were made that the massive pile of soil sliding toward the Euphrates River consisted of materials washed with cyanide and sulfuric acid.

It was revealed that, despite all objections, the company had gone ahead with a capacity increase during the period when Murat Kurum was the Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, and that a decision of "no EIA report required" had been issued for the mine.

News Source: 12punto