More than 200 workers at Shinglecom Cambodia garment factory protested yesterday outside the facility in the capital’s Dangkor district, demanding that a representative of their newly formed union be rehired.

Yang Thaisan, secretary-general of the Union Federation for Labour Rights at the factory, said union representative Sin Vanhong was fired on Saturday after he was unable to work due to an injury sustained on the job. He burned his leg while welding, Yang Thaisan said.

“We think Sin Vanhong was fired because of his leading role in setting up the union,” Yang Thaisan said, adding that it was established early last month.

Employees also called for improved working conditions, benefits and payment and for a Chinese manager to be fired for using obscene language.

Va Yuvavathana, director of the labour dispute resolution office at the labour ministry, spoke to both sides. He said the company refused to rehire Sin Vanhong, but was willing to negotiate other demands, adding that the union’s requests were in line with the Labour Law. 

Representatives of the company could not be reached for comment.