We have been informed that our affiliate, the National Confederation of Forestry Wrkers of Chile (CTF) has started an indefinite strike at Arauco. The work stoppage started at midnight on the 30th of April as a result of failing to reach agreement on the union’s demand to increase wages by 40%.

"Our demands represent three days of profits for the company," Jorge Gonzalez, president of the CTF said, referring to the results of the company in 2006. Arauco’s sales reached USD 2.85 billion in 2006, making a net profit of USD 619 million or around USD 2 million per day.

The previous strike, on March 11-14 this year, reached a mediated agreement to start a dialogue between the company and the CTF. The parties were given 45 days to settle around the 23 points of improvements demanded by the union. The only outstanding issue concerns salary increases. You will recall our earlier information on this dispute.

"All the points were fulfilled, except for the one of wages," Jorge Gonzalez said, meaning that the offer of 5% from the company was not enough to provide the workers with decent salaries.

Previous articles on the ongoing strike

Forestry workers in Chile reach an agreement

Call for Solidarity with Forestry Workers in Chile

Details about... (03/05/2007 - 20/05/2007) Chile BWI calls for solidarity with the Chilean forestry workers   Union CTF   Company involved Bosques Arauco   Source CTF   Case summary We ask you to send a protest message to the company, according to the model below. We will keep you informed of developments.   BWI Action We support the ongoing strike by the members of CTF in your company. We urge your company to continue negotiations with the union in order to reach a mutually acceptable solution which provides workers with a decent living wage.