APM Terminals has issued a statement that disputes The International Transport Workers' Federation ( ITF ) press release on Aqaba which describes how Jordanian employees within the General Union of Port Workers (GUPW) went on strike last week over contract changes and the company’s failure to negotiate a Collective Bargaining Agreement at Aqaba Container Terminal, Aqaba, Jordan, the company said in its press release.
“We find the ITF’s statements misleading , incorrect and not supported by facts. Clearly, the ITF has not received accurate information from its affiliate organization in Jordan. This is counterproductive and results in delays to the regional transportation hub of Jordan and global supply chains. The strike was premature and illegal especially when held during a formal mediation process – which cannot be interpreted as a union victory ”, commented APM Terminals Regional CEO , Peder Sondergaard.
ITF describes that the union has won its case and gained victory, including the company waiving all penalties imposed during the strike, in particular rescinding 23 employees dismissed; and a renewed commitment from the Jordanian government to have its union grievances addressed by the national labour court. ITF also states that Jordanian police last week cleared the port strike , arresting 150 people including union leaders, etc.