Dissident leader of trucker union complies with termination of national strike

VALPARAÍSO.- Despite his reputation as a rebellious leader, the head of Valparaiso truckers, José Egido, has assured that the group will comply with the agreement reached with the government this morning and, despite the fact that he has not signed it; the pact has been endorsed by the president of the National Confederation of Truck Owners, Juan Araya.

While addressing all truckers in the Fifth Region, Egido asserted that the strike would be brought to a close throughout the region “because the country needs us”.

Nevertheless, using a rather defiant tone of voice, Egido assured that the demonstration carried out by the truckers showed the extent of their power and proved that they are the ones who “move the country” adding, “we will have no problem going on strike again if promises are not fulfilled”.

According to the agreement signed by Araya and the minister of Transport, René Cortázar, starting this month truckers will be eligible for an 80% discount on the federal government fuel tax, while next year, the duty will be completely eliminated.