Solidarity rally planned for locked-out workers
By Chris Slee
MELBOURNE <196> The Textile, Clothing and Footwear Union (TCFUA) is planning a stop-work rally of its Victorian members to express solidarity with workers at the Australian Dyeing Company (ADC), who have been locked out for 60 days. The rally, on a date yet to decided, will be supported by the Victorian Trades Hall Council.
TCFUA assistant secretary Michelle O'Neil told a meeting attended by locked-out workers and their supporters on January 29 that the fight "will be won by the combined strength and determination of the whole trade union movement".
Meetings are being held outside the plant every morning between 6am and 8am, with between 100 and 200 attending. Numbers at the "peaceful assembly" continue to be strong due to growing support and a roster of trade unions organised by Trades Hall.
O'Neil said that the members at ADC have "grown stronger and more determined with every minute" of the 60-day lockout.
She reported that the union had met with the company on January 23. The company made an offer that would have resolved the key claims, only to withdraw it again the next morning.
The main issue of contention is the refusal by the company to guarantee that workers involved in the dispute will not be victimised.
O'Neil said the dispute was not just about wages and conditions. The company has a political goal — to break the union — and is receiving the support of other textile companies.
The ADC workers are receiving strong support from members of other unions. Many have voted to contribute a levy to support the locked-out workers. On January 27, a meeting of 100 Maritime Union of Australia members voted to levy themselves $20 each. The motion for $5 was amended by a rank-and-file member.
A family solidarity day was held on January 24. ACTU president Jennie George attended. Workers and supporters were treated to a barbecue, entertainment and children's activities.