370,000 workers in concerted action demand wage increase
On March 18, about 370,000 workers in all 47 prefectures carried out strikes, rallies, demonstrations, and representations to companies, calling for a wage increase for all workers including those under unstable employment conditions.
The day of nationwide action was organized by the Joint Committee for the 2004 Spring Struggle in protest against the attempt by large corporations to cut wages despite the record profits they are making.
In Osaka, about 10,000 people marched in demonstration, holing a banner reading, "Establish rules for humane working conditions."
Members of the All-Japan Metal and Information Machinery Workers' Union (JMIU) went out on a nationwide strike. In Tokyo's Adachi Ward, about 250 local JMIU members held a rally calling for victory in this year's spring struggle.
Large steel companies have prioritized production for large firms, including car makers and ship builders, making it difficult for smaller companies to procure necessary materials. In addition, small manufacturers' products are bought at unreasonably low prices.
A worker said, "We are getting busier. Although workers are retiring, our company does not hire new people. Big firms must return some of their profits to smaller companies and to workers."
In Saitama Prefecture, local groups of JMIU, the Tele-Communication Workers' Union, and the All-Japan Construction, Transport and General Worker's Union walked out on their jobs.
National Confederation of Trade Unions President Kumagai Kanemichi and Abe Sachiyo, Japanese Communist Party candidate for the House of Councilors election, encouraged their actions. (end)
