Support each other in times of trouble
On November 26, the Binh Son District Labor Federation held a Congress to establish the Binh Hai Commune Fisheries Union, admitting 350 fishermen into the Vietnam Trade Union.
At the Congress, the Provincial Labor Federation presented 10 million VND to support the activities of the Binh Hai Fisheries Union. The Binh Son District Labor Federation also presented 20 gifts worth 10 million VND to fishermen in difficult circumstances, each worth 500,000 VND. The People's Committee of Binh Hai Commune and Agribank Dung Quat Branch also joined hands to present 20 gifts, each worth 500,000 VND, to fishermen who are union members. In addition, the Provincial and District Labor Federations also presented 250 national flags, life buoys, and life jackets, providing necessary protection for fishermen on each trip to sea.
Sharing with Lao Dong Newspaper reporter, fisherman Vo Tan Hung, one of the members of Binh Hai Commune Fisheries Union, emotionally said: “Previously, many of us did not fully understand the benefits of joining a trade union. But thanks to the members of the Mobilization Committee, the Fatherland Front and socio-political organizations of Binh Hai Commune coming to our homes to propagate, we understood and decided to join the Union. As union members, we pledge not to participate in illegal fishing and are ready to support each other whenever we encounter difficulties at sea.”
Binh Hai Commune currently has 154 boats, with capacities ranging from 15CV to 750CV, with nearly 900 fishermen participating in many forms of fishing. Facing risks at sea, joining the Fisheries Union not only helps fishermen unite, but also creates a strong support network in difficult times.
Accompanying fishermen
Speaking to Lao Dong Newspaper, Ms. Le Thi Thanh Hong - President of Binh Son District Labor Federation, shared: “The Fisheries Union not only protects the legitimate rights of union members but also acts as an important bridge between fishermen, local authorities and fishing boat owners. This will be a place where fishermen can share their aspirations, solve difficulties, and especially mobilize them to refuse illegal fishing activities.”
According to Mr. Nguyen Phuc Nhan - Chairman of the Quang Ngai Provincial Labor Federation, the establishment of the Fisheries Union has truly become a spiritual support for fishermen, uniting fishermen to create solidarity, mutual support in doing business at sea as well as in times of trouble and risk, actively contributing to maintaining the sovereignty of the Fatherland's sea and islands. Thanks to the Fisheries Union, many union members have received financial support to build new and convert boats, buy hull insurance, crew insurance, buy fishing gear, and equip modern communication equipment.
Up to now, the Quang Ngai Provincial Federation of Labor has admitted more than 18,190 members, reaching nearly 182% of the 2024 target. Of which, there are 891 members from the informal sector, exceeding more than 127% of the assigned target.
