Spanish workers strike against employer push to expand precarious work

Spanish poultry and rabbit slaughtering and process workers have responded to an employer attack on their employment security with a two day national strike on April 11 and 12.

Negotiations to renew the national sector collective bargaining agreement affecting 24,000 workers represented by IUF affiliates CC.OO and UGT have deadlocked over employer demands for increased and more flexible working hours, the elimination of seniority, the cancellation of two consecutive rest days and a demand for greater flexibility to subcontract and outsource work.

Striking workers are demanding that employers return to the negotiating table to strengthen stable employment, end subcontracting and improve wages.

The unions report that more than 90% of the workers have joined the strike.