SDU Calls Off Strike at APM Terminals Gothenburg

The Swedish Dockworkers Union (SDU) has agreed to cancel industrial action in the Port of Gothenburg, scheduled for February 17-28, 2017.

The decision to call off the action, which included stoppages and strikes, was a condition set by Henrik Kristensen, CEO of terminal operator APM Terminals Gothenburg, after Kristensen confirmed he will meet with the International Dockworkers’ Council (IDC) and the SDU on February 23.

Organized by the IDC to which the SDU is affiliated, the meeting could bring a solution to the prolonged dispute between the SDU and APMT Gothenburg.

Also on February 23, a larger group of IDC members will gather in Gothenburg for an IDC-Europe working group meeting. All present are expected to share the common goal of reaching an agreement that will end the ongoing APMT Gothenburg dispute, according to the SDU.

Caused by a change in the company’s personnel policies, the dispute has been ongoing since spring 2016.

The last strike was organized by the SDU on January 24 and included a total work stoppage at the terminal between 12:00 and 20:00 local time.

In the dispute with the terminal operator, workers’ demands include guaranteed trade union rights, respect for the jurisdiction and the right to jobs, honoring standing agreements and other.