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Union wants clarification on joint company to allay concern of members
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The most important aspect of this agreement, for the Union, is the recognition by both the British and Spanish Government of the Gibraltar Government democratically elected as a valid interlocutor of the people of Gibraltar.
This is a major step forward as it establishes the important principle that the people of Gibraltar will have a voice on equal terms with the two other protagonists. This is fundamental as any decision affects and has affected the daily lives of working people in Gibraltar. The TGWU/ACTS has always advocated this policy. The same position should be adopted on the G.F.A access to full membership of U.E.F.A., sporting and culture organisations.
It is clear that in the short term the most beneficiaries of this agreement are the Spanish pensioners who used to work in Gibraltar up to 1969.
Their claim for the revaluation of their pensions has been met by the UK Government. The solution to this problem, which has always affected cross border relations, must be welcomed. We are satisfied that the local recipients of the Social Insurance Old Age Pensioners will be treated in equal terms and their pensions will be activated and upgraded to current levels. The inflation rate since 1988 has risen by more than 53%.
What we are not clear is which inflation rate will be used, the Gibraltar or UK for the increases. Fluidity of movement of people, vehicles and goods between Gibraltar and the Campo Area, will be improved. This is a long and outstanding issue that should have been resolved many years ago, as it is a fundamental right, as it has and still affects many working people on a daily basis, very negatively.
All passengers check-in, baggage handling and passenger and baggage security will be provided through a contractual concession on a commercial basis to a joint venture company owned by Gibraltar and Spanish commercial interest. Currently these services are provided by Gib Airways, which employs staff, who are in the vast majority TGWU/ACTS members. As such we need clarification on these matters by the Gibraltar Government, on whether any chance is envisaged to the present position. This will allay concern for our members.
On telecommunications, it seems that the ridiculous and unacceptable situation, whereby Gibtel mobile phone users were able to use their mobile phone everywhere except Spain will be done away with. This is a long overdue grievance which it appears will be addressed.
There are many issues in the agreement which need to be given more detailed information. At the end of the day, it must be the people of Gibraltarwho wil decide and approve or disapprove the Cordoba Agreement.
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