The Panamanian government has declared a "state of emergency" in Bocas del Toro, following a prolonged strike at a plant operated by a subsidiary of Chiquita Brands, a U.S.-based banana company. The strike, initiated over objections to a pension reform enacted in March, has led to the layoff of approximately 5,000 workers out of the 7,000 employed at the Changuinola facility. The protest has escalated to include road blockades disrupting fuel and food supplies, while schools remain closed.
"The declaration of the state of emergency under no circumstances implies intervention in lifting road blockades by the communities," noted Minister of the Presidency, Juan Carlos Orillac. President José Raúl Mulino's administration states the emergency measure is aimed at activating the province economically by expediting necessary bureaucratic procedures to handle the crisis.
Chiquita asserts that the company's banana production has suffered "irreversible damage" due to the "complete abandonment" of their Bocas del Toro plantations. Consequently, the company has halted planting, packing, exporting bananas, and performing administrative duties, estimating financial losses exceeding $75 million.
Minister Orillac articulated, "We are going to try to talk to those blocking the roads and obviously try to bring them a solution, as much as the government can." Meanwhile, President Mulino highlighted the risk of further job losses if the work stoppage continues, with a labor court having designated the strike as "illegal." Ongoing discussions between a government delegation and union leaders aim to address demands for reinstating previous pension and healthcare benefits.
Source: Tico Times