Until now, China Steel Express (CSE) has upheld a differentiation in labor conditions between office employees and seafarers. This includes the use of fixed-term contracts for seafarers, limited access to welfare benefits exclusive to onshore employees, instances of non-compliance with statutory labor conditions, and the substitution of Taiwanese seafarers with foreign counterparts.
Following extensive labor-management meetings and negotiations with executives at both China Steel Group and China Steel Express, it has become evident that neither company intends to engage in effective communication with the union concerning the working rights and equal treatment of its members. On these crucial matters, compromise is simply not an option for us.
Following ongoing discussions in the union's board meetings and consultations with legal experts, higher-level unions, and labor organizations, an extraordinary general assembly was convened today. With unanimous agreement from the member representatives, the union has officially submitted an application to the Labor Affairs Bureau of Kaohsiung City for labor dispute mediation with the company. The union aims to communicate its demands as follows:
- Convert the employment contracts of all seafarer members from fixed-term to indefinite, ensuring the protection of their labor rights.
- Grant seafarer members "employee remuneration" on par with that of onshore employees. Equality in treatment should be maintained across all positions within the company.
- Within a three-month timeframe, reinstate all job positions occupied by foreign seafarers to Taiwanese members. Any employment of foreign seafarers must receive prior approval from the union in compliance with the Employment Service Act.
This labor dispute mediation marks the beginning of our next wave of resistance and is a declaration of war against the company. However, this is not just the union's affair or the responsibility of union executives; it concerns all members—your affairs and mine!
In recent years, the union has experienced a reduction in membership by nearly a hundred individuals. The company's stance on seafarers' policies is clear, and it is crucial for everyone to stand up and raise their voices together. If you are concerned about potential retaliation from the company for participating in union activities, I assure you that the union will launch a comprehensive struggle against any measures initiated by the company due to your involvement. This includes legal actions, street protests, engagement with administrative and legislative bodies, and political lobbying, all aimed at defending the rights of our members.
Even today, there might be many among us facing various considerations, making it challenging to step forward. Nevertheless, the union encourages each one of you to initiate change within your immediate circles by sharing information about the union's actions and the company's practices. Or take the initiative to call your local representatives and make them aware of China Steel Express' actions!
The union should not just be an organization or a symbol; it should be intricately woven into your daily life. We hope that each of you can gradually comprehend and actively engage with the union, integrating its principles into your life and making the pursuit of fairness and justice a personal goal. Let’s stand together and work towards a more promising tomorrow. The union can only thrive with your active participation!
