Nairit plant employees storm government building, demanding back pay (video)
Scores of employees of Nairit chemical plant stormed the 3rd building of the Armenian Government since early morning, demanding repayment of their back wages. More than 260 employees of the plant have not received salaries for 5-6 months. Ashot Manukyan, Minister of Energy Infrastructures and Natural Resources, came out to talk to the angered group. “There is a problem and it needs solution. Our ministry cannot solve the problem alone. The issue is under discussion by representatives of all ministries. I do not want to give advice or promises; I do not want to lie to you but I tell you that you will know about the final decision as soon as it is taken. But I cannot say when it will happen – tomorrow or in a week,” Ashot Manukyan said, “Should I imagine [the source], I would give you a clear answer. I do not want to cheat you or make unsubstantiated statements.” The government has announced an open tender for the reopening of the plant, giving all interested companies until January 20 to submit copies of their bids. Minister Manukyan says not a single company has showed interest in the plant until now. After the meeting with the government official, three of the Nairit employees headed to the Presidential Palace to meet Felix Tsolakyan, Chief of President’s Control Service.
