VASCO
The United Bargemen Association (UBA) has demanded the recruitment of ex-barge workers, who were working at the Mormugao port since the last many years, in the forthcoming season from September.
In a press note, UBA President Puti Gaonkar criticised the State government for allowing barge owners to engage and contract new crew from outside the State, thereby depriving employment opportunities for ex-barge crew who were working for many years in the State.
“Since mining activity came to a halt in 2012, most barge crew have been unemployed. During our general body meeting on July 14, barge crew have resolved that the government should not give permission to appoint new workers from outside the State,” said Gaonkar.
“We warn barge owners who intentionally try to engage outside workers on contract basis that the UBA will hold agitations. We will not allow barges owners to operate without engaging our local ex-workers in the coming season,” said Gaonkar.
“We also request the ex-barge workers who are willing to to work in forthcoming season to register their names in the union office before August 30,” Gaonkar added.
