31st Oct 2000 : UCATT unequivocally states opposition to Dam

The London South East Regional Council of UCATT unequivocally states our opposition to the proposed Ilisu Dam development in southern Turkey. In full accordance with UCATT policy and the debates at our national conference in Killarney we condemn the environmental, human rights, archaeological and political consequences of the project.

We oppose the £200million of UK government aid for the contract to be built by British contractor Balfour Beatty. The arguments about “British jobs” should not made be at the expense of workers and peasants rights in the ex-colonial countries. We stand side by side with those fighting exploitation by British multi-nationals in the name of Globalisation. This is a trade union interpretation of an ethical foreign policy.

Being the premier trade union for construction workers, the London South East UCATT Regional Council issue a “Green Ban” on the Ilisu Dam project and encourage all UCATT members and construction workers within our region to refuse to undertake any works on the contract.

Passed by London South East UCATT Regional Council meeting held Friday 22nd Sept 2000