Hong Kong

On 2 October 2008 ( 5 days before World Day Decent Work -WDDW ) the Clothing Industry, Clerical and Retail Trade Employees General Union (CICRTEGU, affiliated to HKCTU, UNI and ITGLWF ) held a press conference to release the results of their latest survey concerning workers in convenience stores. Over 90 percent of employees were not satisfied with their present low wages. Even though there has been substantial improvement in the economy of Hong Kong, workers have only recived a minimal increase of 1 to 2 percent in their 2007-2008 pay increase. They also have to work long hours.

Of those interviewed, one hundred percent wanted to change their jobs.

The press conference was covered by over 15 media outlets and TV stations. The press was also informed concerning the global WDDW campaign. The CICRTEGU demanded the Hong Kong SAR government to legislate on a minimum wage, maximum working hours and introduce collective bargaining legislation.

Chinese version here

7 October is a public holiday in Hong Kong where people bring flowers to the cemeteries to honour the dead.  Photos attached show CICRTEGU officers and members at the press conference,