A delegation of British trade unionists has returned from Israel and the Palestinian territories with a commitment to develop links and co-operation between their Israeli and Palestinian counterparts. This comes at a time of increased co-operation between the Histadrut (Israeli TUC) and the Palestinian General Federation of Trade Unions (PGFTU) following from their historic agreement signed in June 2008.
Trade Union Friends of Israel took a delegation of eight senior trade unionists on a five day fact finding mission. This included a tour of Jerusalem, briefings with the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, sessions with various representatives of Israeli unions and a visit to Ramallah to meet the PGFTU.
Delegates also visited the Alumim youth centre in Kafa Saba for disadvantaged children where they witnessed a rededication to the centre by the current President of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Mr James P. Hoffa and a large delegation from the US Unions. His father, Mr Jimmy Hoffa Sr supported the establishment of the centre in the late 1950s with funding from the Teamsters.
Roger Lyons, Chair of TUFI, said: “The improved relationship between the Histadrut and the PGFTU was in full evidence from the briefings we had. It is now important that the UK unions seize the opportunity to develop relations with their sister unions”.
“The fact that any mention of boycott by all parties was absent really demonstrated how far we have come. However, we must not be complacent as there are those who are organised who would like to damage any relationship between Israeli, Palestinian and British trade unions”.