A battle is brewing between Chavez Frias and the union. The union broke one of the cardinal rules of negotiations by taking a statement out of context, during the course of negotiations. The intent was probably to exert pressure on Chavez Frias, but it will accomplish just the opposite. When parties are holding discussions, everything is confidential until an agreement is reached, and a joint, or an agreed to statement is made reflecting the agreement. This is to allow both parties the freedom to present offers and proposals at the negotiation table.
None are binding, they are just part of the process.
It is a serious breech of good faith to go public with a supposed statement, in an attempt to hold the other party to it. This act shows a serious deterioration in the talks. It is difficult to see how Chavez can trust the union to negotiate in good faith, when they use such tactics. If Chavez Frias is going to do battle, now is the time. If the union strikes, it will only reinforce the public's view, used by Chavez Frias during the elections, that the oil workers and the oil company are pursuing their selfish ends, at the cost of the country's economy.