AIDS is an issue of concern in the port sector
An ITF study into how HIV/AIDS is affecting port communities has shown that more action is needed from trade unions.
The study is being released as part of World AIDS Day, and can be seen at www.itfglobal.org/HIV-Aids/port-study.cfm .
The project found that HIV/AIDS is an issue of concern in the port sector, and that, as with other transport sectors, there is a need for behavioural change and for the gaps in awareness and knowledge identified to be addressed. At least some of the onus for these tasks falls on trade unions, the ITF believes.
ITF dockers’ section secretary Frank Leys said: “Some transport sectors have been much more badly hit than others by HIV/AIDS, but none is immune, and anyone who ignores that fact risks letting down all those who are affected. That’s why we began this research and why we will now dedicate ourselves to doing our best to put in place the practices that it identifies as being needed by those working in the world’s ports.”
ITF HIV/AIDS coordinator Dr Asif Altaf commented: “The ITF should build on these findings, as well as its experience in other sectors, to help affiliates take action that is both institutional and very personal. This is a major challenge. At one level, affiliates need to recognise and commit to the idea that AIDS is a workplace and a union issue, one that needs to be fully mainstreamed in the union agenda to ensure action over the long-term. At the same time they must find ways to help members assess and recognise their own risk and to support them in managing and reducing it where necessary.”
Source: ITF
