Thompson's Roller Shutters PTY LTD Turrella is an unfortunate example of what life is like for workers under the Howard Governments new industrial relations laws.

After trying to force its workers to sign AWA's for over six months the Thompson's management has taken advantage of the absence of unfair dismissal laws and fired an employee of 13 years for complaining to management about racial vilification within his Turrella workplace.

After weeks of harassment including racist comments written on his locker to Lebanese bread being left in the staff toilets with racist notes attached the man sought help from management. Not only did Thompson's management refuse to take any steps against racial abuse in their factory but they decided to fire this employee for "causing division" among the workers.

Since this sacking 9 workers have gone on strike outside the Henderson Street factory in solidarity with the sacked worker and in refusal of management's plans to place all employees on one of Howard's beloved AWA's. These workers, some who have been with Thompson's for over 18 years, have been trying to negotiate a collective bargaining agreement with the company for over 7 months.

So far 7 full timers have signed AWA's and remain in the factory while 9 casual labour hired staff have been brought into take over the jobs of the 9 workers who have decided to strike.

Members of Worker Solidarity NSW are urging comrades and concerned citizens to participate in a peaceful community assembly outside the Henderson Street factory.

WSNSW believe that this kind of direct action is the most effective way to express solidarity with those workers who are brave enough to oppose the ongoing attacks against workers rights in Australia.

more info: Daniel on 0406 049 871 | Assembly Tueday 14 November