Unions Suspend Strike, Warn Of Immediate Nationwide Action Over Parliament Agenda

Speaking on behalf of the unions, Bıçaklı commented on Prime Minister Ünal Üstel’s statement that the Cost-of-Living Law would be discussed at next week’s parliamentary session. He noted that Üstel said Monday’s session would be held under a regional developments agenda, adding that such a move is not possible under parliamentary rules.

In the unions’ full statement, Bıçaklı said:

“It is clear under parliamentary rules that such a postponement or agenda-setting method cannot be done in this way.

Our expectation is that both internal problems within the National Unity Party and the crisis between coalition partners regarding recent visits will lead to a lack of quorum in parliament on Monday. For this reason, Üstel is attempting to create a cover strategy.

We do not trust Üstel or this government at all. Based on this, we are suspending our general strike until the next parliamentary session. However, if parliament convenes on Monday and continues from where the previous session left off, we will immediately declare a nationwide general strike and come to parliament.

Accordingly, our general strike is suspended until parliament is opened with the Cost-of-Living Law on the agenda. On Monday, unions will hold a broad meeting and announce new actions, including calls for the government’s resignation, to the public and our members.

You will be more afraid.”