7 March, 2014Rubén Darío Montoya Obando has been on a hunger strike since February, protesting against Tenaris – Tubos Caribe’s, his former employer, refusal to pay compensation for a serious work place accident he suffered in 2002.
In July 2002, when working for a contractor in the Tenaris – Tubos Caribe plant, Rubén suffered an accident in the workplace. A pipe pierced his chest and he lost three ribs and was incapacitated to work.
Since 2002, Rubén has been in and out hospital, twice reinstated to his job only to be fired again. The insurance company still denies any compensation.
In September 2013, the court ordered the reinstatement of Rubén in a position suitable to his disability, a payout of salaries since the day of the accident, as well as a partial pension.
But Tenaris – Tubos Caribe and the insurance company have appealed the court decision to pay past wages and grant a pension. This move will postpone a solution for months, perhaps years.
In order to incite action, Rubén went on a hunger strike in February. His condition has deteriorated and he is now hospitalized as result.
Walberto Marrugo, president of IndustriALL Global Union affiliate Sintratucar who organizes the workers of Tenaris – Tubos Caribe, said:
“There is no serious program of safety and health at work in Tubocaribe. The Labour Ministry has not taken strict measures with respect to this issue.”
Sintratucar is affiliated to IndustriALL Global Union affiliate FETRAMICOL.
Fernando Lopes, IndustriALL assistant general secretary says:
“The actions of Tenaris – Tubos Caribe demonstrate that their words about health and safety are void. Sintratucar and IndustriALL Global Union demand a prompt resolution and that Rubén is paid the compensation he is entitled to.”
Workers at the Tenaris plant in Italy have shown their support, now we call upon workers around the globe to do the same.