The Quang Tri Provincial Federation of Labor said that the working delegation of the Provincial Industrial Park Trade Union had a working session with the grassroots Trade Union of the Ba Don Public Works Management Board. This is an opportunity to listen, recognize and better understand the hardships and difficulties of workers directly involved in environmental sanitation, tree care, and urban drainage.
The hardships behind the color of the labor shirt
The Ba Don Public Works Management Board currently has 70 staff, workers and laborers, most of whom are direct laborers. Their work is associated with the sun and wind, heavy rain, the smell of garbage, road dust and overnight shifts to restore the clean and beautiful appearance of the streets.
Despite the heavy nature of the job, the average income is only about 4 million VND/person/month, which is still low compared to the minimum living standard. Many workers are old, their health is declining, and they are responsible for raising young children and taking care of sick relatives.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Thuyet - Head of the Garbage Collection Team shared that sometimes in harsh weather, cold rain or severe heat, the staff still have to stick to work, because if there is a delay, the garbage will stagnate and affect the entire residential area.
"We hope to receive additional support in terms of income and working conditions to feel secure in staying long-term" - she said.
The grassroots trade union has made efforts to care in many forms, partially supporting electricity and water costs, and organizing cultural and spiritual activities during holidays and Tet. However, resources are still limited, so it is not possible to fully meet the growing needs of union members.
Listen to act for workers
At the meeting, representatives of the Provincial Federation of Labor acknowledged all recommendations of the grassroots Trade Union and proposed more practical support solutions. Including mobilizing social resources to help union members in especially difficult circumstances; coordinating the organization of periodic health check-ups; organizing training and labor law consultation; improving skills and knowledge to help workers protect their rights.
Chairman of the Quang Tri Provincial Federation of Labor Nguyen The Lap emphasized that going to the grassroots and meeting workers is the best way for the Trade Union to understand the current situation and adjust activities to suit needs.
We hope that every union member, worker, especially environmental workers, who silently preserve the urban appearance, will always feel the companionship, sharing and protection from the Trade Union organization, he said.
From the practical experience in Ba Don, the Provincial Federation of Labor will continue to propose that all levels and sectors pay more attention to the environmental workforce. Because they not only beautify the streets, but also contribute to protecting public health and preserving the living environment for future generations.
Solutions such as improving income, equipping quality labor protection, providing periodic health care... will be a great source of encouragement for workers to be more steadfast in the face of difficulties. At the same time, the community's cooperation, from awareness of maintaining hygiene in public places to appreciating their work, is also the most practical way to share.
