[APWSLMembers 504] Letter to support Anton Marcus form Aotearoa New Zealand

[links at actrix.co.nz]

Postal Workers Union
P O Box 6287
Marion Square
Wellington
Aotearoa/New Zealand


5 May 2007

The President
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
President's House
Temple tree
Colombo
Sri Lanka

Re: Intimidation of Trade Union officers

Your Excellency Mahinda Rajapakshe

I write to express our deep concern about the abductions and intimidation
of trade unionists in Sri Lanka who are exercising their internationally
recognised international rights.

We believe the Government of Sri Lanka has a critical role in taking all
steps to assure the safety of those who are exercising their trade union
rights.

We also believe it is the responsibility of the Governemnt of Sri Lanka to
ensure action is taken against those involved in abduction and
intimidation.

Of most recent and particular concern are the posters appearing in a
number of locations in a campaign against representatives of the Free
Trade Zone and General Services Employees Union, the Health Sector Trade
Union Alliance, the Railway Trade Union Alliance and the Ceylon Teachers
Union.

Along with all other trade unionists who face serious threats we mention
the case of Anton Marcus.

He is well known to a number of trade unionists in Aotearoa New Zealand -
his trade union activities are highly regarded and he is much respected.

The legitimate activities of trade unionists in such difficult times in
Sri Lanka are supported by trade unionists everywhere.

We welcome any reports you have of action your Government is able to take
to secure and ensure the rights to freely engage in trade union activities
in Sri Lanka, especially those trade unionists who are the focus of the
current campaign of imtimidation.

John Maynard
Vice president
Postal Workers Union