Cathay Pacific Aircrew union leader fired for posting Facebook message following flagrant act of repression

The president of the Hong Kong Dragon Airlines Association of Flight Attendants, announced Friday that she had been fired by Cathay Dragon Airlines for her support for the recent anti-China protests, provoking outrage from the trade unions. territory.

Rebecca Sy, who had been working for 17 years for Cathay Dragon, a subsidiary of the airline Cathay Pacific, said Friday that she had been suspended from her duties on Tuesday without notice or explanation while she "s sure she 's going to be in business. was preparing to go to China (via Reuters).

Sy told a press conference that she was sacked Wednesday during a meeting with the airline 's management, during which officials presented snapshots of the car. screen of three publications on Facebook (whose visibility was reserved for friends of Sy), expressing their support for anti-Beijing protests in Hong Kong. Kong.

At Sy's press conference, a representative of the Hong Kong Confederation of Trade Unions (HKCTU) denounced Cathay Dragon's decision, noting that at least 14 people working in the aviation sector had have left their job or been fired for their support or involvement in the project. recent events. The unrest began in March as a result of a controversial proposal to amend the laws on extradition of the autonomous territory.

Carol Ng, president of the HKCTU, said Sy's dismissal was a "blatant act of repression." According to Sy, a wave of "white terror" – an expression referring to anonymous acts creating a climate of fear – assaulted the industry. "All employees are scared, not just cabin crew, but even management," said Sy. "My colleagues are all terrified."

The central aviation regulator in China – the Civil Aviation Administration of China – is pressuring Cathay Pacific following the protests. Protesters periodically occupied the main terminal of the territory's airport, forcing hundreds of flights to be canceled. In response, the regulator sought to ban all Cathay staff who participated or supported the protests.

The turmoil has reached the top of the organization, with CEO Rupert Hogg and his deputy Paul Loo leaving the airline in recent weeks.

Prior to Friday's press conference, Cathay Pacific Airways General Manager James Tong issued a statement outlining the organization's total support for "the defense of the Basic Law and all rights and freedoms". guaranteed by it ", referring to the legislation" One country, two systems "relationship between Hong Kong and China.

"We are a leading international airline with global operations and therefore we are required to comply with all laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we operate," he added, noting that the last few weeks have been "extremely difficult" for Cathay staff.