Division reaffirms support for JRU7

The RTBU NSW Locomotive Division has reaffirmed its strong support for Japanese train drivers unfairly prisoned on charges of union coercion.

This week, a Japanese court dismissed the final appeal in the JR Urawa Electric Train Depot case.

The Japan Rail Union is a sister union of the RTBU. As such, the RTBU has and will continue to offer strong support, said NSW Loco Division Secretary Bob Hayden.

“The JRU7 are seven rail workers and unionists who were thrown in jail simply for organising in their workplace,” said Bob.

“International solidarity is critical to protecting the right to organise and participate in trade union activities anywhere in the world.

“On behalf of our Division, I have sent a strong message of support to the JRU7 on this setback to their campaign for justice.”

The JRU7 were arrested on November 1, 2002 and have been held in jail ever since.

They have won widespread support, with approximately 100,000 union members and supporters gathering in Tokyo to hear court proceedings.