Working on the edge: dock casual workers and privatisation

Abstract

In a 10 year review of freedom dock workers spell out their disappointment and anger with the lack of progress in their lives. In this paper the basic conditions of work are examined in the life stories and employment history of dock workers. The transition from permanence to actualization is traced and some idea given of the strategy of survival of casual workers under globalisation. Conclusions are drawn about the nature of trade unionism under these circumstances.