FPU statement

The Federation of Trade Union of Ukraine strongly protests against decision of the National Commission for State Regulation of Energy and Utilities made on 28 March 2017 to set new tariffs on the transportation and distribution of the natural gas.

Ignoring the provisions of the General Agreement, decisions of the National Tripartite Social and Economic Council, orders of the Government, principles of the social dialogue, the Commission without discussion with social partners has once again made a decision that threatens citizens’ living standards, economic and social stability of the state.

Introducing the fixed monthly fee for using gas transmission and distribution networks, that are part of the state’s strategic infrastructure, will once again make energy more expensive for the population and business, will negate all the efforts to save energy and diversify its supply and become a next obstacle for social and economic recovery of Ukraine.

Trade unions demand:
- to immediately cancel the decision of the National Commission for State Regulation of Energy and Utilities and impose a moratorium on raising prices and tariffs on utilities without prior public discussion and agreeing with social partners;
- to hold accountable officials of the National Commission up to their dismissal;
- wide discussion of the national tariff policy in the Parliament and Government with the involvement of civil society, experts, social partners.

If these demands are ignored, the FPU, together with other trade unions and civil society organisations, will decisively act to protect the interests of trade union members, including mass protest actions.

FPU