The General Confederation of Labor (CGT) has decided not to attend the first social dialogue meeting scheduled for next week by the Labor Secretary, Julio Cordero. This decision marks a significant setback for those favoring dialogue, who had hoped to engage in this negotiation meeting alongside business leaders from the Group of Six (G6). It also represents a surprising political victory for the hardline faction within the labor movement, which includes figures like Pablo Moyano of the Truckers’ Union and Kirchnerist union members.
During a meeting at the CGT headquarters on Azopardo Street, leaders expressed their frustrations over the impacts of austerity and recession on various industries. There was lively debate regarding the union’s future steps. Not only did they resolve not to participate in the meeting with Cordero and the G6 business community, but they also approved Moyano’s proposal to support a march organized by social movements to San Cayetano on August 7.
Union leaders unanimously criticized presidential candidate Javier Milei’s plan, contending that it aims to recreate a pre-Peronist Argentina dominated by large economic groups. Grievances were also directed at the leadership of the Peronist party, with one CGT leader lamenting, “We are alone; our politicians are absent.” Even more moderate voices, like José Luis Lingeri from Obras Sanitarias, expressed concerns about political abandonment and the self-serving nature of provincial governors.
CGT co-chair Héctor Daer emphasized the importance of unity, asserting that “the unity of the CGT is not at stake.” In response, Moyano, despite having distanced himself from certain decisions, showed support for Daer’s leadership. Daer called on the council members to maintain solidarity, stating, “We must stay united.”
Gerardo Martínez from UOCRA, a key figure in the dialogue-oriented sector, was absent from the meeting due to commitments at the G20 ministerial forum in Fortaleza, Brazil. However, other significant leaders were present, including Carlos Acuña from service stations and Andrés Rodríguez from UPCN.
Before the meeting, Moyano expressed to Radio 10 his belief that confrontation with the government is necessary to address the economic model harming small businesses and workers’ purchasing power. He highlighted the government’s intention to extend income tax to an additional 1.5 million workers and stated, “The only path left is confrontation.” He confirmed plans for a march on August 7, organized by social movements, to advocate for peace, food, and work. Moyano stressed the need for continued public demonstrations to protect workers’ rights against government measures perceived as detrimental.
This topic remains an evolving situation.
Image and News Source: https://www.infobae.com/politica/2024/07/25/sorpresivo-endurecimiento-contra-el-gobierno-la-cgt-decidio-no-ir-al-dialogo-social-que-propone-el-secretario-de-trabajo/
