Northern Water Workers Warn of Escalation and Strike!

The Union of Employees and Workers of the Northern Lebanon Water Authority stated in a statement that "the difficult living conditions and the continuous rise in the cost of living can no longer tolerate further delays, and require serious and swift action from the state to address employees' and workers' rights and demands."

It noted that "the transportation allowance approved by the state, amounting to 450 million Lebanese pounds, no longer aligns with current realities, given the rise in fuel prices and the price of a gasoline barrel reaching nearly 32 dollars, making it insufficient to cover daily commuting costs."

The union called for "re-evaluating the water allowance to match current burdens and expenses, and addressing the overtime allowance due to colleagues and ensuring fairness in this matter." It also urged the state and relevant official bodies to "assume their responsibilities and address these demands, improving the living conditions of employees and workers." The union affirmed its support for "any legitimate labor movement aimed at benefiting employees and workers," endorsing "the steps and actions taken by the General Labor Union and the North Workers Union in defense of workers' and employees' rights and demands."

While emphasizing "its commitment to dialogue and responsible resolution," the union stated that "continued disregard for these rights will leave the union the right to resort to all legitimate union means, including escalation and strikes when necessary, in accordance with established procedures and laws."