Lifeguard stir: Goa govt to intervene to resolve row

Lifeguards in the state have continued their strike for the fifth day today

Goa government has decided to hold a meeting jointly with protesting lifeguards and the private company employing them, even as the lifeguards continued their strike in the state for the fifth day today.

"We will find out a solution to the issues raised by lifeguards by holding a joint meeting with the agitators, the company and government officials," state Tourism Minister Dilip Parulekar said after labour union leaders met him in Porvorim.

Nearly 650 lifeguards employed by Drishti Lifesaving Services Private Limited have been on strike for last five days, mainly demanding regularisation of services and payment of minimum wages.

The lifeguards have been holding protests near state tourism department's office here.

"A solution would be worked out within two days. I have to also consult (Goa) Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar on this issue," Parulekar said.

According to the minister, minimum wages should be paid to the lifeguards, as per the contract signed by the company (Dristhi) with the state government.

"The tourism department will follow up the issue with the company," he assured.

However, the lifeguards have decided to continue their protest till their demands are not met.

"We met tourism minister and briefed him about the issue. He had knowledge about our demands. We have told him that the company should fulfil the promises made to the government during signing of the agreement," said Suhas Naik, leader of All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), which is spearheading theagitation.