The senator of the Comunes party, Imelda Daza Cotes, summoned a public hearing before the plenary session of the Senate to discuss the critical situation of vulnerability faced by workers and pensioners in the mining sector in the departments of La Guajira and Cesar. The event will take place on Thursday, June 20 at 8:00 am in the city of Valledupar.
Both departments, known for their vast natural resources, have been a focus of attention by multinational companies in an extractive economy focused on coal. However, this activity has generated consequences for the environment and local communities, including the appropriation of water sources and forced displacements.
Senator Daza Cotes highlighted that despite the enormous profits obtained by mining companies, La Guajira continues to be one of the poorest regions in Colombia, with a monetary poverty rate of 67%. In addition, she denounced serious labor abuses, including the illegal outsourcing of contracts and the arbitrary suspension of pensions for 431 mining workers pensioned for disabilities acquired at work.
«The situation of workers and pensioners in the mining sector is alarming. “Many have been stripped of their basic labor rights and face unacceptable conditions of vulnerability,” said the congresswoman. “It is essential that the Ministry of Labor and Colpensiones take immediate action to resolve this situation and protect the rights of those who have contributed significantly to the national economy.”
In the public hearing, the participation of National Government entities responsible for labor and pension protection, as well as union representatives and human rights defense organizations, is expected. The main objective will be to analyze the current situation and seek effective solutions for workers and pensioners affected by abusive practices in the mining sector.
The senator called for solidarity and support from all organizations committed to social justice and the defense of human rights. “The people of La Guajira and Cesar need our voices to join in defense of their rights and the environment, which continues to be in serious danger due to these extractive practices,” concluded Daza Cotes.
#Colombia
