Announcement by the Trade Union of the Greater Teheran United Bus Company (Sherkat Vahed Otobusrani Greater Teheran)

On the suppression of today’s strike action

To the world’s workers and all trade unions and progressive organisations.

Denounce the attack on out strike action.

On behalf of 17,000 workers and employees of the Teheran Sherkate Vahed Bus Company we inform all workers associations throughout the world and all those who oppose the repression of the most elementary human rights that today 8^th Bahman 1384 (28^th January 2006) our widespread strike was confronted by an unprecedented attack by agents of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The night before they had attacked our homes, and even carted to prison our small children. Many, whose exact number we do not as yet have but will be in the hundreds, have been arrested. Many of our colleagues were forces to drive the buses after beatings and threats. They have brought in a number of drivers from military units and have sent thousands of police and security forces, both in and out of uniform, to intimidate us and break our strike. This is where we are now.

Why did we go on strike? For the release of Mr Osanlu and other union leaders who were imprisoned without provocation and by force; for the right to collective bargaining, for recognition of the union, for a pay increase, and similar demands. Can anyone believe that they have unleashed such savage and extensive attack on us for such demands?

This is what the Islamic Republic has done and we are left with no choice but to continue with our determined and united struggle. We ask of you, our colleagues, those who share our destiny, those of you can have your assembly and trade union, to condemn this action by the Islamic Republic. We expect you to demand the unconditional and immediate release of all those arrested. To support the recognition of our union and the realisation of our demands. We expect you to condemn the suppression of our strike action. And to call for the punishment of all those who attacked the strikers’ ranks.

We take this opportunity to thank all those trade unions and organisations that have supported our struggle. We have a long and difficult struggle ahead and earnestly request your continued support.

Respectfully

The Union of the Greater Teheran United (Sherkat Vahed) Bus Company

January 28 2006