Beshai Steel Factory management suspends striking workers

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The management of the Beshai Steel Factory has decided to suspend striking workers for three months, which a labour source described as an arbitrary decision. The source said that the management accused the workers of inciting strikes, disrupting work and sabotaging the factory. Workers of the Beshai Steel Factory in Menoufia continued their strike against their poor working conditions. One of the workers had committed suicide because of his living conditions, which accelerated the strike.

The 3,500 workers announced the suspension of negotiations with the factory’s management in response to what they described as the board’s procrastination in responding to their demands. Their demands included increased wages, hazard pay, housing allowance, transportation allowance, and the approval of the annual growth. They also asked for improved contract terms for new workers.

The Egyptian Center for Economic and Social Rights announced its solidarity with the workers, demanding they be empowered with all their rights. Also, the Center for Trade Union and Workers Services announced its solidarity with the workers and started a campaign to support their rights. Workers said that the Ministry of Manpower failed to take a severe stand to support their rights.