Sharp criticism of the government from TÜRK-İŞ President Atalay! 'Workers have no strength left to endure'

TÜRK-İŞ President Ergün Atalay made statements regarding the collective bargaining negotiations for public sector workers during a press conference he held in Ankara. Atalay drew attention to the inadequacy of recently increased worker salaries and the struggle of workers to make a living.

Atalay stated that public sector workers earning between 34,000 TL and 40,000 TL are experiencing a difficult period of subsistence. Emphasizing that these wages are insufficient, Atalay also reacted to employers who cannot find workers by saying, "Let them go wherever they want."

HE CRITICIZED MEHMET ŞİMŞEK

Atalay criticized Treasury and Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek, stating that he has not taken any positive steps for laborers. Atalay said that the economic policies pursued by Şimşek do not provide any benefits to workers, retirees, subcontractors, or interns.

THE DISTINCTION BETWEEN WORKERS AND CIVIL SERVANTS

Atalay, who also made criticisms regarding some civil servant unions, stated that the value of workers should be better understood. Saying "Civil servant unions should not look down on workers," Atalay expressed that workers' working conditions are harsh and that those who perform physical labor should be more appreciated.

Atalay drew attention to the importance of the public sector collective bargaining process and issued a call to the government. Stating that the demands of the workers must be taken into account, Atalay said, "The worker has no strength left to endure."

Atalay stated that workers preparing to make strike decisions during the collective bargaining process will resist against strike bans justified by national security. Criticizing the strike bans remaining from the September 12 era, Atalay said, "The worker must show their reaction at every point."

THE GOVERNMENT'S INADEQUATE POLICIES REGARDING WORKER RIGHTS

Atalay stated that the government remains inadequate in its policies regarding worker rights and that new regulations are needed to improve worker salaries. He also expressed that employers do not want to sit at the table only for monetary issues.

Atalay drew attention to the decrease in skilled labor in Turkey and that the government is not taking sufficient precautions in this regard. Furthermore, he emphasized that accidents related to occupational health and safety are increasing day by day and that working conditions for laborers must be improved. Regarding recent arrests, Atalay reacted to the unfair detention of individuals whose crimes have not been finalized. Stating that justice is delayed, Atalay expressed that the fundamental principles of democracy must be defended. Atalay stated that the minimum wage is insufficient for subsistence and that a legal regulation is needed on this matter. He also stated that TÜRK-İŞ will not be at the minimum wage table, but that they will continue to defend the rights of workers on this issue.

News Source: 12punto