TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Workers from the Chunghwa Telecom Workers' Union (中華電信工會) plan to protest at the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC, 交通部) on Wednesday (Nov. 27), expressing dissatisfaction with their treatment. In response, the transportation minister said on Tuesday that he would urge Chunghwa Telecom to engage in dialogue with the union.
The union stated that after reaching a preliminary agreement with the company in September 2023, they agreed to delay strike voting until July 1, 2024. However, they now feel the company has not been sincere in addressing their concerns, and progress on the collective agreement has severely lagged.
The union plans to gather at the ministry Wednesday morning, then march to the company's headquarters to protest and plan an overnight stay. Their demands include a monthly salary increase of NT$7,500 and a transportation allowance of NT$3,000 for employees. They also call for sincere negotiations on the collective agreement and immediate discussions on a retirement plan extension for employees reaching 65.
MOTC Minister Chen Shih-kai (陳世凱) emphasized the importance of communication, noting the company's status as a listed entity with governance responsibilities. He expressed hope for a fair agreement between both parties. The union's actions highlight ongoing labor tensions, and the outcome of the protest may influence future negotiations.