The Georgian Trade Union of Energy Workers, an IndustriALL Global Union affiliate, launched a campaign for respect and better working conditions for workers employed at Energo-Pro Georgia at the country’s largest power generator and distributor.
Union members agreed upon the campaign at a workshop organised by IndustriALL in Telavi on 6 - 7 April 2019.
Local management of Czech-owned Energo-Pro Georgia continually refuses the union’s request for constructive social dialogue and avoids meetings with trade union leaders. As a result, a number of grievances, such as demands for wage increases, overtime payments and representation of the trade union at the Commission of Labour Protection remain unresolved.
Workers complain about the poor salaries at Energo-Pro Georgia, which are much lower than other companies operating in the sector in Georgia, including the state-owned electricity company and other multinationals from Russia and Turkey.
Amiran Zenaishvili, president of the Georgian Trade Union of Energy Workers, stated:
“Investment in Georgia shouldn’t be dependent on the low salaries of workers in our country. Our campaign is not only a struggle for higher wages, but it is also a struggle for the dignity of Georgian workers, who deserve much more respect.”