The strike called by UGT Almería in large textile and footwear companies saw an 80% participation rate, according to union figures. This historic stoppage clearly demonstrates the workers' strong opposition to the reduction of rights proposed by employers in the upcoming state convention.
Union sources from UGT expressed gratitude for the "commitment and bravery" of employees who defended their rights against what they deem a "serious labor regression" resulting from the preliminary agreement signed by the employers' association ARTE along with CCOO and FETICO.
“"The response in Almería has been forceful, with historic participation in a sector that has never before experienced a state strike of these characteristics. The turnout has highlighted the deep discontent among staff regarding a convention that seeks to cut consolidated rights and pave the way for greater job precarity."
UGT also reported that pressure and blockades by some companies prevented several establishments from closing, thereby hindering the exercise of the fundamental right to strike.
The union criticizes that the future state convention could create inequalities, facilitate the replacement of stable employment with precarious contracts, and threaten collective bargaining at provincial and territorial levels, in addition to allowing the imposition of work on Sundays and holidays based on arbitrary business criteria.
UGT reiterates its firm opposition to the loss of hard-won rights and advocates for a minimum state convention that guarantees the prevalence of provincial and company agreements when they offer better working conditions.
The union organization considers that this day marks a "before and after" in the sector, sending a clear message to employers about the workers' determination not to accept setbacks in salaries, stability, and labor rights.
