Iraqi Embassy protest over union busting

[Omaha Steve]

Source: United Press International

WASHINGTON, Aug. 16 (UPI) -- U.S. labor leaders rallying outside the Iraqi Embassy in Washington pressed the prime minister to uphold workers' rights as oil workers are targeted in Basra.

Iraq's Oil Ministry has called the oil unions illegal and barred its departments and companies from any dealings with them.

Dozens rallied in front of the embassy Thursday as a letter from AFL-CIO President John Sweeney to Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki was presented to the embassy, demanding the government recognize the rights of workers.

"It is crucial that workers in Iraq have these basic rights recognized," said AFL-CIO International Department Director Barbara Shailor. The unions have demanded improved working conditions for months, as well as a voice in negotiations over an oil law they fear, if passed, would give foreign and private companies too much access to Iraq's oil.


Read more: http://www.upi.com/International_Security/Energy/Briefing/2007/08/16/iraqi_embassy_protest_over_union_busting/3973/

[Kolesar]

1. Iraq might be our colony, but it does not have to be a banana republic...eom