The multinational chemical company Linde Praxair has resumed a labor conflict over union persecution at its Pacheco plant by blocking the entry of six workers after 41 days of truce. These companies have been fined in several countries for anti-competitive practices, and in Argentina, for this and for anti-union and discriminatory practices.
In the case of a dismissed worker, Arecco, there was a long struggle that culminated in his reinstatement in 2007, after court rulings condemned the employer for discriminatory attitudes. The company claims an nonexistent crisis to justify layoffs, while employees mention union achievements in previous years, such as salary increases and improved working conditions.
After the merger of Linde and Praxair, workers from different branches organized to exchange benefits and rights. The situation in Pacheco has led to a strike by workers seeking their immediate reinstatement. Employees denounce an attack on union organization in the establishments and call for solidarity from unions and social organizations.
Workers maintain that during the pandemic they were crucial in the production of medicinal oxygen, ensuring supply to hospitals and clinics. Since the merger of Linde and Praxair, the company began to threaten layoffs and the closure of the establishment in Pacheco, citing high costs.
The conflict has spread to other branches of the company in Buenos Aires, where workers have initiated strikes demanding the reinstatement of those dismissed. Despite the company's excuses, employees point to reprisals for their union organization and previous achievements.
