Metin Atan: "We Will Engage in Civil Disobedience Despite the Strike Ban"

Speaking on Sabah Postası, a program hosted by Gökhan Altıner on Kıbrıs Postası TV, Atan addressed issues including the upcoming meeting with the Ministry of Finance, potential strikes, and the cost-of-living crisis, signaling civil disobedience.

Atan criticized the recent increase in milk prices from 43.45 TL to 53.50 TL and argued that the declared cost-of-living rates do not reflect reality. He claimed that flawed calculations result in reduced purchasing power and salary losses.

"Purchasing Power Is Not the Same as Salary Increases"

Atan highlighted that declining purchasing power has shifted consumer activity to the south. He stated that meaningful measures cannot be implemented without addressing the informal economy, establishing a fair tax system, and supporting disadvantaged groups. Concrete steps to restore purchasing power must precede salary increases, he added.

"We Will Resort to Civil Disobedience Despite the Strike Ban"

Atan announced that unions would meet with Finance Minister Özdemir Berova at 2:30 PM tomorrow to discuss proposed legal changes regarding the cost-of-living allowance.

While unions aim to resolve issues through negotiation, Atan warned that if the bill is passed without union consensus, they will proceed with civil disobedience, despite the strike ban. He urged Prime Minister Ünal Üstel and Minister Berova to seize the opportunity for dialogue, stating, “We want resolution through negotiation, but if not, the consequences will be severe.”

"It’s Either Us or Them"

Atan reiterated the need for the government to stand by those struggling under challenging conditions and called for a fair system where the wealthy contribute more taxes. He warned, “If tomorrow’s meeting doesn’t end positively, we will strike despite all restrictions. It’s either us or them.”