Trade union ballot backs anti-government demonstrations

Solidarity demonstration, Warsaw 2011: wikipedia

The referendum on the policy was held as Prime Minister Donald Tusk refused to cave in over unionists demands in late April concerning prospective reforms to the labour code.

Unionists argue that the prospective reforms would extend the use of 'junk' employment contracts - temporary contracts suited to casual labour, in which employment rights are limited.

A preliminary strike was held in Silesia in March.

All in all, over 8000 companies took part in the vote, and 600,000 unionists across the country.

Speaking with the Rzeczpospolita daily, Solidarity spokesman Marek Lewandowski said that although some votes have yet to be counted, between 60 and 80 percent of unionists have come out in favour of the proposed actions.

“At the moment, a large demonstration in Warsaw is the only action that is certain,” he said.

The action is planned to last several days, including a rally outside parliament. (nh)