GWU claims it represents majority of port workers

MDU describes secret ballot as "a farce"

The General Workers' Union yesterday claimed that it netted 81 per cent of a secret ballot, representing 53 per cent of licensed port workers. The voting was directed by Buttigieg & Refalo Advocates and 236 workers cast their vote, according to the GWU.

In its reaction, the Malta Dockers Union described the voting as a farce noting that it had documentation to show that 327 licensed port workers were on its book and no secret ballot could change that verdict.

The GWU, however, said that its victory proved its claim that it enjoyed the support of the majority of licensed port workers and it was to immediately work harder in the interests of the workers involved. The GWU said it wrote to the maritime authority and the Freeport requesting recognition.

On its part the MDU said it was requesting the registrar of Trade Unions to inspect its books. It accused the GWU of being afraid to submit its books to the registrar of Trade Unions and asked what was the GWU afraid of.

The dockers' union said that when, in September 2006, it had the membership and resignation forms which showed it represented the majority of workers, it presented these to the registrar and to GWU general secretary Tony Zarb. What was holding the GWU from taking the same steps if it really enjoyed majority support? the MDU asked.