The Bangladesh union that supports workers involved in the factory that collapsed killing 1100 and making many more jobless has asked New Zealanders for help.
They have made their request through Christian World Service, reflecting the long connection between the union and CWS.
The plea for help has come from Amirul Haque Amin of the Bangladesh National Garment Workers Federation (NGWF).
Mr Amin wrote to CWS international programmes head, Trish Murray thanking her for her messages of support and sympathy after the factory collapse tragedy.
“I know you are very busy but please consider that NGWF have to do a lot of things,’’ said Mr Amin.
These actions included: “supporting our members-dead and injured, trying to reach the other dead and injured but the numbers are very big, ensuring that the injured get proper treatment, and making sure that the dead, injured and suffering workers get proper compensation.”
As well they were trying to get support for the workers affected by the abrupt closure of other dangerous factories by the Government in the wake of international outrage after the collapse of the Rana Plaza factory in Savar on April 24.
There had been at least 22 other factories closed and workers from these places were also in need of compensation and support.
Mr Amin also said that the factory collapse had underlined the urgency of keeping up their campaign for safer working conditions for Bangladeshi garment workers.
“If we can get direct support to the victims then it will be also easier for us to do other things as well,’’ said Mr Amin.
Donations to the Bangladesh Workers Appeal can be made: on line at www.cws.org.nz/donate, sent to PO Box 22652, Christchurch 8140 or by calling 0800 74 73 72.
For further information contact: CWS National Director, Pauline McKay. Phones: 03 366 9274 or 021 289 1225
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