The Malta Dockers Union yesterday informed the Freeport authorities through an official letter that it will take all the necessary action to protect the health and safety of its members if nothing is done by 12 February.

The union said the authorities had to provide the machinery, transport and other facilities that will safeguard the health, safety and dignity of the licensed port workers employed at the Freeport.

On 27 January 2006, the Industrial Relations and Employment Director ordered the Freeport management to carry out the necessary changes and maintenance for the safety of the workers within six weeks.

These changes included the installation of new machinery, safe transport and work practices that conform to the health and safety rules. The union said that it continuously received complaints about the poor conditions of the private mini-vans, trucks, the lashing room and works carried out at a height of over 150 feet without adequate protection.

It expressed its concern saying that despite the union’s effort to resolve these problems, little has been done by the Freeport authorities.

As a result, the Malta Dockers Union sent an official letter to the Freeport authorities saying it will take all necessary action to protect the health and safety of its members if nothing is done by 12 February.

In a separate statement, the Malta Dockers Union said that any financial loss caused by a shortage of workers should not be attributed in any way to the union or any licensed Freeport workers. The union was referring to several statements that appeared in the media.

It is clearly stated in the collective agreement that if there are not enough workers, the company has the right to employ more workers from the list of licensed port workers as drivers. These will be regulated according to the provisions stated in the collective agreement.

The Malta Dockers Union stated that it has already given the authorities a list of people that can be immediately employed with the Freeport.