They had decided to take action: Eti Alüminyum workers continue their resistance

At the Eti Alüminyum factory in Seydişehir, Konya, workers are continuing the protests they have been holding for days due to the inadequacy of the wage increase offered. Stating that they decided to take action against the 56 percent raise in the face of salaries melting away due to high inflation, financial hardship, high rental prices in Seydişehir, and rising food prices every day, the workers emphasize that the raise is unacceptable.

5TH DAY OF ACTION: THE RESISTANCE CONTINUES

A young worker stated that his family members also work at this factory, saying, "In the past, when they worked, my uncles and my father used to earn well. They lived like kings. Now, forget about buying a house or a car; we are in debt. But we cannot win without fighting."

A middle-aged worker mentioned that he works in shifts, saying, "I have 2 children, I am an electrician. I can barely make it to the 15th of the month," expressing that the wages are not enough in any way. An experienced worker who has been at the factory since 1976 also said, "Working alone is no longer enough."

While one worker mentioned that those with vineyards or gardens in the village earn extra income by farming, another worker stated that he also participated in the producer protest held in Seydişehir. An experienced worker, whom the AKP-supporter worker referred to, stated that he also planted sunflowers and is experiencing financial difficulties, adding, "The idea that workers cannot unite and the 'we will hire people for minimum wage' mentality is over."

WHAT HAPPENED?

Eti Alüminyum, the metal factory that is Turkey's primary aluminum producer, was privatized and sold to Cengiz Holding in 2005.

News Source: 12punto