Gov`t Warns Public Servants Over Anti-Lee Declaration

The government yesterday decided to severely punish all unionized public servants who signed a declaration criticizing the administration regardless of how judicial authorities rule on the matter.

The Cabinet reached the decision in a meeting against the unionized government employees. Presidential spokesman Lee Dong-Kwan said Public Administration and Security Minister Lee Dal-gon asked all ministers for help at the meeting.

“Please severely punish all government employee union members who signed the declaration and before the investigation results or rulings come out,” the spokesman said.

If the Korea Government Employees Union, the Korea Democracy Government Employees Union and the Korean Court Employees Union announce the declaration, the Supreme Public Prosecutors’ Office will start a probe when Public Administration and Security Ministry moves to prosecute them.

The Korea Government Employees Union in a committee meeting decided to postpone approval of the declaration and decide on whether to sign it June 30.

Spokesman Lee also said, “A total of 122 fired government officials are illegally working as union leaders and living on the bailout funds raised for them and purchased apartments and studios in Seoul.”

mhpark@donga.com alwaysj@donga.com