Peru: Miners ready to strike
(LIP-jl) -- Leaders from Peru's miners union have announced they will go on strike on April 30 to protest Peruvian President Alan Garcia's unfulfilled campaign promises that call for the elimination of mining employment agencies and for the disaffiliation of private pension plans.
Today the President of Peru's National Federation of Metallurgic Miners and Steal Workers, Luis Castillo, assured government officials that Peru's miners will go on their first strike since 2004 if Garcia does not fulfill his promises.
The Peruvian mining sector, which is the world's third largest producer of copper and zinc, the fifth in gold, and one of the leaders in silver production, is the catalyst behind the Andean nation's growing economy.
In fact, more than 50% of Peru's total exports are comprised of mineral exports.
A strike, whether for 24 hours or 1 week will surely affect Peru's mining industry, and consequentially other sectors as well.
"We obviously do not want to take it to that level, but if the government does not meet our demands then we will be left with no choice but to proceed with our plan," said Castillo.
Castillo mentioned his federation will meet with Peruvian government authorities to dialogue over a possible agreement.
Miners last picketed during April 2004. Their 48 hour strike was in protest to then President Alejandro Toledo's labor policies.
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