It was around 10:30 a.m. that employees of the ASG Shipyard returned to work after staging a two-hour “sit-in” in front of the EOB in Utulei this morning.
Despite the rain, the group of about 40—led by CEO Carlos Sanchez—held signs and sat or stood undeterred. Some of the signs read: “Shipyard workers demand action, No, no, no bureaucracy. Work like us.” “No equipment, no work.” “Respect public projects. We ready to work, let us.”
The demonstration was aimed at getting a decision from Treasurer Donald Kruse to release a shipment of equipment for the shipyard without having to pay excise tax.
Sanchez said Lt. Governor Pulu Ae Ae Jr. stopped by and told them to go to work while the issue was being sorted out. But he said they wanted to get a decision from the Treasurer and Governor. Sanchez said the Treasurer sent a note saying they will discuss the matter and relay the decision. Police also arrived to ensure the demonstration did not disturb the peace. “We told them this is a peaceful demonstration, so they left us alone,” said Sanchez.
KHJ News tried to obtain a comment from the Treasurer by phone but was told he was holding meetings with Customs.
Sanchez said he was thankful for the support shown from members of the public. He said they have returned to work and are now awaiting a decision from ASG on the release of equipment the shipyard needs to fix ASPA water tanks.
