Monrovia, Liberia – The ongoing strike action that has halted AML operations at the company’s operational sites in the counties of Nimba and Grand Bassa has been the subject of discussions between the Ministry of Labor, workers’ representatives, and management. The Ministry of Labour has issued a directive in view of the existing circumstances requesting an immediate end to the strike actions and the fast return to work of all AML employees.
The ministry’s instruction is also in keeping with a stay order issued by the Labor Court asking all parties to revert to the status quo ante while the matter is being decided, which called for an immediate stop to the strike by the Arcelor Mittal Liberia employees’ union.
You may recall that on Friday, May 12, 2023, His Honor, Joseph M. Kollie, Resident Judge of the Labor Court, ordered the restoration of the status quo and the immediate release of all Arcelor Mittal assets, including the equipment’s keys.
The employees called for the strike on May 10, 2023, at both of Arcelor Mittal Liberia’s operational sites. They did this after bringing up their issues with the ministry regarding pay inequalities and the necessity for compensation increases.
It is important to create a mutually beneficial solution that takes into account the interests of the management and the employees while also acknowledging the expectations of the workers.
The Labour Minister Counselor acknowledges the value of fair remuneration and the right of workers to express their complaints. Charles H. Gibson has taken a leading role in serving as the mediator in discussions between the management and employees.
However, Minister Gibson has warned the labor union that any strike or other industrial action must adhere to the Decent Work Act and the laws of Liberia.
In early December of 2022, the Liberian government through the Ministry of Labour met with the management of Arcelor Mittal Liberia and the workers represented by their mother union, the United Workers Union of Liberia UWUL to resolve the concerns of the workers that have been standing for over two years.
Labour Minister Counselor Gibson facilitated the discussions to ensure that all parties have an opportunity to express their concerns and find common ground to avoid future occurrences. The workers noted that the management of Arcelor Mittal Liberia is fully aware of the issues raised by the employees and acknowledges the importance of addressing them.
The company however stated that it faces financial challenges that limit its ability to implement immediate salary increments. They have committed to engaging in further discussions and exploring potential solutions to the existing disparities.
The Liberian government through the Ministry of Labour encourages the employees at Arcelor Mittal Liberia to return to work as a sign of good faith and commitment to finding a resolution. By resuming work, the employees can ensure the continuity of operations, protect jobs, and contribute to the economic growth of Liberia, he ministry noted.
Minister Gibson claims that the Ministry of Labor is still dedicated to assisting in a fair and open bargaining process. He stated that the ministry will keep in touch with both the staff and the management to make sure that any issues were properly addressed. The Liberian government is committed to safeguarding employees’ rights and fostering a climate that is favorable to business in order to foster growth and development, according to the labour minister.
Minister Gibson demanded an immediate end to the strike action and urged Arcelor Mittal Liberia employees to report back to work following a contentious meeting between the company’s management and the workers’ representatives on May 11, 2023, at the Ministry of Labour in Monrovia.
Using teamwork and open communication, he asserted, the Liberian government is certain that the employees’ issues can be adequately addressed. He underlined the value of fair compensation while taking into account the company’s financial limitations and the necessity for unity.
The minister asserted that the Ministry of Labour, employees, and management can collaborate to reach a win-win deal that will protect the rights of Arcelor Mittal Liberia employees, the company’s management, and the Liberian government.
Reported by: Augustine Octavius
Contact: +231777463963
Email: augustineoctavius@gmail.com
