Mexican employers haven't used such people in the past, but maquiladora managers seem to be adopting the hardball U.S. model of labor relations. Its workers build truck trailer chassis and huge metal shipping containers for the huge Hyundai manufacturing complex. Han Young workers complain they often lack welding masks, gloves and safety shoes. The plant has no ventilation system, and lead fumes from soldering cause permanent eye damage. But the Han Young workers' core demand was company recognition of their independent union.
Workers call it a company union.
That possibility may explain why Han Young fired Armenta and two co-workers. Company spokesmen have declined to comment on the reasons for the firing. The FAT, Mexico's most independent labor federation, has been cooperating with the U.S.-based Teamsters Union and United Electrical Workers on organizing drives. Hyundai's Tijuana operations are particularly vulnerable. In addition, workers employed in Hyundai's main plant complain of being hit by Korean foremen.