Turkish government postpones tire strike

BRUSSELS, Belgium (May 18)—A tire industry strike in Turkey that began April 28 was put on hold a week later when the Turkish government´s executive cabinet claimed it was a threat to national security. The cabinet invoked Article 33 of the country´s collective agreements, strikes and lock-outs, which allows the government to suspend any strike or lock-out for up to 60 days if the action endangers "public health or national security," according to the Brussels-based International Federation of Chemical, Energy, Mine and General Workers´ Unions. During the 60-day period, negotiations between the Turkish rubber union and ICEM affiliate Lastik-Is and three tire companiesÏsubsidiaries of Goodyear, Pirelli S.p.A. and Bridgestone Corp.Ïwill continue, an ICEM spokesman said.