Workers demand dialogue with the government on the renewal of the energy concessions

The government should introduce to industry representatives its proposal for the renewal of the concessions in the electricity sector. And what about the view of workers?

This week, the government should introduce towards related industry sectors its proposal for the renewal of the concessions in the electricity sector. Everything indicates that the government will decide to renew the concessions – and not for new auctions.

The renewal of the concessions is defended by entities in the electric utility workers and social movements, articulated in the Platform of Energy Workers and Peasants. Many of the concessions that will expire are in the hands of state companies and a non-renewal will signal a further privatization of the sector. “However, it is not enough to renew, it is necessary to discuss what are the conditions for this renewal. That is, who will benefit from the energy of the Brazilian state? The business sector has long been benefiting, while the Brazilian people has been paying the account. “This error can not be committed again” says Gilberto Cervinski, coordinatior of the Movement of People Affected by Dams (MAB).

Workers’ organizations have criticized the way to making the decision and claim that their proposals were ignored. “This is a lack of democracy, because the government hears only one sector, entrepreneurs, and leaves out workers and social movements, which also have their proposals” said Franklin Gill, president of the National Federation of Urban (FNU). Many of the proposals of the employees are antagonistic to the business sector, Franklin explains.

The business sector represented by Fiesp, supports the implementation of procurement and non-renewal. Another sector supports  the renewal of concessions and argues that the power is destined for the free market (ie, large firms), while workers argue that it is for the residential market.

“In addition, entrepreneurs will want to keep outsourcing the workforce. They also do not argue that the state fulfills its role of public policy, including dialogue with those affected by the works, “says Franklin.

“The Platform of Energy Workers and Peasants requested an audience with the Presidency in March 2012 and so far has not been heeded. It is unacceptable that the sectors that have appropriated the public patrimony of Brazil with the re-privatization again will benefit and that the government central have responsibility in this decision” complains Gilberto Cervinski.