July 28th, 2010
BISHNU RIMAL, general secretary of GEFONT, has been in the labor movement for a long time. Rimal spoke to various issues related to trade unions. Excerpts:
What is happening to the unification process of GEFONT and NTUC?
We have set up a task force, which is working out the procedure for the merger of two unions. We have already identified some areas of common concern like the gender issues at the workplace. We had jointly launched the agitation on the service charge issues. If we have a united trade union, it will benefit employers as well as employees.
It is said that Nepalese trade unions are creating hurdles for foreign investment by making unnecessary demands within a rigid Labor Act. How do you look at it?
There is no truth in this. We have maintained good relations with employers in the establishment of foreign investment. In Soaltee Crown Plaza, Nepal Lever Limited and other five-star hotels, there are very good relations between employers and employees.
Where are you facing more problems?
We have problems in the small hotels and small industries where the employers do not want to implement† the laws. If the laws are implemented correctly, nobody would have to worry. There are better relations in the garment industry.
You mean trade unions are not creating any problems?
That’s right. We have not created any problems. Nepal Battery shut down due to the disputes with the Nepalese executives and Nirula’s was shut down because of other reasons. Nepal’s labor moment is constructive. Of course, it was wild in its early stage. But now it is very manageable and disciplined.
How do you see the frequent disturbances like strikes in factories and industrial establishments?
There were a small number of individual strikes, but you cannot see major collective strikes. The number of strikes is coming out. There is a tendency now to lock out the hotels.
How do you see politicization in the trade unions?
You cannot expect the labor movement to be apolitical, since it has to deal with economic, political and other issues. So, it is natural to have politicians to lead the trade unions. If you see in general, there is ratio of 10 percent politicians and 90 percent workers at the organizational level. We have three different trade unions representing three different political ideologies.
Coverstory Interview of Spotlight weekly magazine (VOL. 22, NO. 43, MAY 09 – MAY 15 2003)