Dear Sir,

I must congratulate Michael Fahy for putting an injunction out against Chris Furbert and the BIU [a temporary injunction was obtained in February amid marches over furlough days].

Ridiculous, putting tourists and local commuters at an inconvenience every time he wanted a meeting during the day (working hours) at the taxpayers’ expense.

May I suggest that the Government and the private sector negotiate with the BIU so that every dispute goes to binding arbitration; we don’t want walkouts during the America’s Cup when everyone is watching Bermuda around the world. A disruption to ferry, bus and taxi service during this time would be a total embarrassment to the Island.

May I also suggest that all BIU members in all industries be given a chance to buy shares in their establishments, especially hotels and cottage colonies.

This would give employees exposure to financial statements of these establishments so employees know the financial condition of the establishment they are working for.

The BIU itself should also be given an opportunity to buy a small stake in these establishments. If the BIU had shares in these hotels and cottage colonies, it would be less likely to go on strike and hurt its own share. The BIU would then put more effort into the negotiation process for the sake of its own pocket.

Final thought: still remember watching the news in the 1980s — a general strike, a little old lady dragging her suitcase up Sonesta Hotel’s hill. She was from New Jersey paying $400 a night and relied on locals to get her to the airport. No taxis. Guess what she told her relatives and friends when she got back to New Jersey? Where not to go on vacation (Bermuda).

Where is Sonesta today? Gone. Remember the strike at Willowbank? Where is Willowbank today? Gone. Where are the employees of these two tourist accommodations? Out of work, retired or working somewhere else.

Food for thought for the BIU and management. Strike? A last resort!!

OBSERVER, Sandys