Petrobras attempts to avert union strike

Brazilian oil company Petroleo Brasileiro SA (PBR), or Petrobras, has made a last ditch attempt to prevent a massive union strike across the country.

Called by the Oil Workers’ Federation (FUP) to begin Thursday, it could seriously impact oil production, refining and distribution, in Brazil, by as much as of 1.8 million barrels of oil a day.

The main point of dispute from the union is the structuring of pay and promotion awards, which the FUP claims are filled with discrepancies. The FUP is calling for a more transparent staffing policy which awards promotions on the basis of merit, and a fairer distribution of salaries.

Petrobras is a near monopoly in Brazil, responsible for more than 95% of oil production in the country, as well refining and fuel distribution.