Settlement averts strike, brings important gains for Colombian banana workers

After 70 days of tough negotiations and preparations for a strike, the IUF's Colombian agricultural workers' affiliate signed an industry-wide agreement on June 19 which brings important gains for 18,000 banana workers and their families.

The agreement brings a wage increase over two years, increased funding for housing, education, culture and sport and a productivity arrangement with the possibility of further improving wages.

Over 4,500 contract workers previously offered employment only on "special days" - often no more than 2 a week - will have access to work for the entire week.

SINTRAINAGRO has warmly thanked the IUF and the Colombian trade union movement for the support it received throughout the difficult negotiating period.