The president of Panama, José Raúl Mulino, wants to prevent Chiquita from closing its operations in Bocas del Toro at all costs, as the company's departure would affect more than 7,300 workers in the banana sector. "The current situation at Bocas del Toro is bigger than a shutdown," Mulino stated. While the government can formally decide to reopen the province, it has chosen to sit down with the Banana Workers' Union (Sitraibana) to prevent Chiquita's departure.
Mulino warned that if no solution is found and the company leaves, the protesters and union leaders "will be out of work within a few days."
"We are talking with the banana union because 7,300 jobs are at risk," stated the Minister of Labor, Jackeline Muñoz.
The Executive has also sent the Minister of Commerce, Julio Moltó, and the director of the Social Security Fund (CSS), Dino Mon, to Changuinola to present a proposal and meet with the workers' leaders.
Source: metrolibre.com