Tasmac unions favour prohibition

The issue of prohibition has put a question mark over the future of Tasmac retail liquor shop employees, but trade unions representing them are in favour of closing the shops. They, however, want the government to find reemployment for the staff in other departments depending on their education qualification.

“A trade union cannot confine itself to articulating the rights of workers and their welfare. It also has a social responsibility. We are for prohibition as alcohol has caused a great damage to society. But its implementation cannot be done overnight, as it directly involves the livelihood of thousands of workers,” said K. Thiruselvan, general secretary of the Tasmac Oozhiyarkal Maanila Sammelanm, affiliated to the CITU.

Nakkeeran Elangovan, treasurer of the Tasmac Pattali Thozhirsangam, said most of the employees were on the job out of family commitment and compulsion.

“They are of the opinion that the job is a nuisance. It is a cash and carry trade, without minimum welfare measures. They are not allowed to enjoy even the slightest benefit of a government employee,” said Mr. Elangovan.

Around 28,000 employees are working in 6,800 retail liquor shops on consolidated payment.

More shops, more alcohol consumers

Pointing out that the increase in the number of alcohol consumers was directly connected to presence of more shops, Mr. Thiruselvan said the first step towards achieving prohibition would be to close bars attached to liquor shops.

“It will reduce the drinkers by 30 per cent as the customers of the bars are those who cannot drink at home or in friends’ place. The government should also restrict the working hours of liquor shops,” Mr Thiruselvan said.