ITF calls for action in support of UPS worker in Germany

15 January 2010

Ver.di activist and UPS workers Murat Sahin *


Murat Sahin *

The ITF yesterday urged member unions to back a worker at UPS in Germany, who it is alleged, may have been discriminated against.

In the call to action the ITF urged affiliated unions to send protest letters to UPS managers to demand a solution to the case, which revolves around developments at UPS in Cologne, Germany, the company’s major European hub. Details were outlined in an article published by the ITF-affiliated union Ver.di; the union alleges the possibility of discrimination and racist behaviour against trade union activist Murat Sahin, who is Turkish. Since the article was published, it is understood that a mediation process has been taking place between managers and Sahin; Sahin has outlined a proposal relating to the composition of the mediation panel in order to progress the matter.

In a letter to Scott Davis, UPS chairman and chief executive officer, Ingo Marowsky, ITF global organising coordinator invites him to contact UPS managers to resolve the case. “All of us expect a clear message from the company that victimisation of, and discrimination and racist behaviour against trade union activists are all unacceptable actions and have no place in the UPS world,” he said.

More information about sending a protest letter: http://www.itfglobal.org/solidarity/upsgermany.cfm

 

UPS to test new handheld computers

titleUPS drivers later this year will field test a new handheld mobile computer with all sorts of next-generation bells and whistles.

Atlanta-based United Parcel Service Inc. (NYSE: UPS) has partnered with Honeywell (NYSE: HON) on the device, which will undergo field testing in late 2010 with plans to begin a multi-year, global deployment In 2011.

The mobile computer -- The DIAD V (Delivery Information Acquisition Device V) -- is about half the size and weight of the devices UPS drivers now use and has faster Wi-Fi support. It allows on-the-fly switching between cellular carriers, meaning the computer can automatically jump to another cellular carrier if the preferred carrier’s signal is lost.

The color display and microprocessor has substantially expanded memory to support driver training and future applications like navigation. A color, auto-focus, flash camera will allow proof-of-delivery and help resolve customer claims more quickly.

Its 2D imager can decode many symbologies, including existing UPS linear barcodes and the UPS Maxicode, and speed the upload of additional package information at the time a package is first picked up. The 2D imager also will make it even easier to “capture” a clear view of a recipient’s signature.