Indorayon workers want more security

Indorayon workers want more security

MEDAN, North Sumatra: Employees of pulp and rayon mill PT Inti
Indorayon Utama on Monday headed to the provincial council to
voice their demands, including that the security forces step up
their guard around the plant in Porsea, North Tapanuli.

Security is necessary for planned audits of the controversial
plant, blamed by residents and environmental groups for
degradation of the environment.

The delegation also demanded an end to what they said was the
inappropriate use of religious issues in protests against the
plant.

Employees said people reiterating demands that the plant close
were imposing their will through intimidation of residents and
employees through the use of crowds.

"We face the threat of being unemployed and terrorization from
a group of people," employee Darman P. Purba said.

The action came amid continuing protests of residents and
activists against the plant. In countering charges the plant is
to blame for deforestation in North Tapanuli, employees said
Indorayon replanted 45,070 hectares compared to logging 27,313
hectares.

They also denied charges the plant was to blame for a foul
odor in the area, citing findings of the Environmental Impact
Management Agency. From 1995 to 1997, Indorayon received a blue
rating from the clean river program, employees said, meaning it
was in the second rank in waste management. Charges that
employees abused residents were also denied. (21/anr)