‘Foundation of trade unionism under threat’, union leader says
A handful of the Island’s workforce turned out at Victoria Park at lunchtime to commemorate May Day, the International Workers Day most commonly known as Labour Day.
Bermuda Trade Union Congress President Wendell ‘Shine’ Hayward led the list of trade unionists who gathered to commemorate May 1, the official Labour Day in 80 countries around the world.
“The labour movement has a lot of unfinished struggles we yet need to win,” said Mr Hayward. “The importance of labour should be recognised everyday so we’ll always have May 1 as International Workers Day.”
Referring to BTUC’s recent failed bid to have the holiday moved from September to May 1, Mr Hayward said: “We’ll take Labour Day in September and any other days that they want to give us until that time that they do grant us, and we do believe they will grant us May 1 as our Labour Day to be celebrated with a holiday right here in Bermuda.”
Bermuda Public Services Union President Kevin Grant said: “With the strong tremors of a recession still being felt we are seeing the very foundation of trade unionism under threat.”
While he did not name the recent dispute between KFC Bermuda and the Bermuda Industrial Union, Mr Grant said: “When collective bargaining agreements are being attacked this is a sign of total disregard and a lack of respect for workers and those who have fought so hard for the benefits that we enjoy today.”
Mr Grant added: “There has been unfair dialogue in the media about privatisation and cutbacks in the public sector. However, we believe it is critical that the public realise that the balance of accountability and ensuring quality public services cannot fall victim to what may be a quick fix.
“We cannot just standby and watch as the rights of workers so passionately fought for come under threat. We must take a firm stand as our forefathers did and let everyone know that trade unionism is strong and here to stay.”
Other speakers included Arnold Smith on behalf of BIU, and Detective Sergeant Kevin Christopher for the Bermuda Police Association.
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Published May 1, 2012 at 2:06 pm (Updated May 1, 2012 at 2:05 pm)