Suntracs: ILO intervenes with the Government to close the accounts

He Single Trade Union of Construction Workers (Suntracs) received a response from the International Labor Organization (ILO), after closing the account of her Savings Bank.

Karen Curtis, head of the ILO’s freedom of association service, confirmed in a letter to Suntracs that she had intervened with the National Government in relation to a complaint lodged in relation to the closure of 18 union bank accounts and other personal accounts of leaders.

Curtis said he also addressed another aspect of the complaint relating to to excessive use of force during demonstrations in Panama v. mining contract.

The head of the ILO’s Freedom of Association Service informed the Suntracs leadership that he would keep them informed of the National Government’s response to the complaint.

The complaint before the Geneva-based ILO was brought by Marcos Andrade, Secretary of Conusi; and Saúl Méndez, Secretary General of Suntracs.

This is highlighted in a note with a complaint sent to the ILO to request its intervention savings bank gave administrative reasons for closing the Suntracs account, but that the government had leaked indications of irregular movements funds related to the financing of terrorist actions, which is false and defamatory.

Suntracs claims that Cortiz’s government violated Conventions 87 and 89 on freedom of association and the right to organize.

Saúl Méndez defended the legality of the funds they manage and indicated that they will fight to the end.

According to the leader, a tool was used to disable the work of the union, and he warned that such a situation could happen to anyone, which is why he questioned the Panamanian banking system.

The Savings Bank remained silent and limited itself to that report only always operates in strict accordance with the laws and regulations of Panama. He also specified that in accordance with banking regulations and regulations, he is subject to secrecy and confidentiality.