Background of Tea Day

Since 2005 the International Tea Day has been observed in many tea producing countries. The first  International Tea Day was celebrated in New Delhi on 15^th December 2005 and the second Tea Day Celebrations were held in Sri Lanka on 15^th December 2006. The International Tea day Celebrations and the Global Tea Conferences preceding the celebrations were jointly organized by ISD and CEC    in association with the PSSF and Trade Union Movement. The ITD Committee of Sri Lanka discussed the issue of 2007 ITD celebrations and the decision was taken in consultation with the CEC, and TUs, to hold the celebrations in the individual countries. Accordingly a programme is proposed for Sri Lanka.

ITD Celebrations 2007

SRI LANKA 

The main celebrations would be held in Badulla, Sri Lanka- the main tea producing area. On 15^th December 2007. Leaders of Trade Unions, Civil Society organizations, Small Holder Associations, the Workers and other representatives of the stake holders will participate for this event. On 14^th December 2007 a Conference will be held to discuss the problems of plantation workers and to make recommendations based on the International Tea Day Declarations of 2005 and 2006, and to review our activities in 2007. The Sri Lankan Tea Committee, ISD and PSSF in association with the Trade Unions has organized a series of events in 2007 to promote tea workers’ activities

The Main Demands of TUs and Tea Workers – ITD 2007

Demand for a Living Wage

Cost of Living Allowances

Decent Living and Working Conditions

Decent modern Housing with Land rights

Ensure subsidized Food Basket

State to ensure security of life, employment and property

To oppose Leasing subleasing of Tea Plantations

To oppose out grower system

To separate Housing Settlements from Management control

To conclude international commodity agreement for tea

Implement – Ten year Action plan 2005-2015(Plantation Social Development)