Lack of dialogue over privatisation of utility could trigger industrial unrest
18 October 2005, update: the union reports that the government has reacted positively to our intervention, there have been meetings and a social package and new collective agreements are being prepared.
(19 September 2005) The Macedonian government has decided to privatise the electricity company of Macedonia ESM. 90% of the shares should be sold. Several foreign investors have indicated their interest. The process takes place without consultation of the trade unions. No social guarantees are negotiated. No guarantees are made part of the call for tender and the licences for the new owner. EPSU’s Macedonian affiliate the independent trade union of workers of the Electro-Economy of Mecedonia (SSESM) and its president Robert Simonoski organised a press conference to denounce these plans. EPSU’s Deputy General Secretary participated and argued that privatisation of companies delivering essential services can proof harmful to society’s interests. Doing so without negotiations and guarantees for employment and pay and conditions is not acceptable. He warned this could lead to industrial unrest like in other countries where governments refused to work with the trade union. The press conference received widespread coverage on TV and newspapers and put immediate pressure on the government to consult the trade union.
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