Some Protests and Partial Road Closures are Reported as the Strike Unfolds

This Monday, several protests and pickets were reported by workers from the National Union of Construction and Related Industry Workers (Suntracs), who, along with teachers’ unions, have called a strike in protest of the Social Security Fund Law.  10:05 AM South Corridor reported a traffic closure on the South Corridor near Costa del Este, heading toward Paitilla.  All schools have been closed. Education Minister Lucy Molinar addresses the impact of the strike called by teachers’ and construction workers’ unions, which led to the suspension of classes to protect students’ safety.  Meduca announces that classes will resume nationwide this Tuesday. There are lineups at many gasoline stations. More news to come as the day and the week unfolds.

Mitradel Reiterates that not Showing Up for Work Constitutes Job Abandonment and Companies can Fire Workers

The strikes called by the National Union of Construction and Related Industry Workers (Suntracs) and the teachers’ unions are illegal and can result in sanctions for workers who do not show up, including deductions from pay and even dismissal.  “What are the consequences? People have to protect their jobs but this illegal strike would lead to companies being able to dock workers’ wages, because it constitutes abandonment. Those who don’t go to work violate their employment contract and could even lead to the company firing them,” she said. Minister of Labor, Jackeline Muñoz, pictured above in a green jacket, met with representatives of Suntracs and reiterated that the strike call is illegal and will result in sanctions.