Union leaders back electricians’ strike

THE nation is facing into possibly the most debilitating strike in a generation as union leaders last night fell in behind 10,500 electricians who will pull the plug today on over 200 construction sites and factories across the country.

The strike by the TEEU will see electrical contracting work halted and may result in thousands of other workers refusing to cross picket lines. The strike will significantly affect the energy, manufacturing, construction and aviation sectors.

Yesterday leaders of SIPTU, the country’s largest union, and UNITE endorsed the action. SIPTU general president Jack O’Connor said: “The electricians must be supported by all workers, because the employers’ objective of cutting pay and tearing up agreements reflects the primary aim of the wealthy elite in our society, which is, above all else, to preserve their own assets and privileged position.”