The Bermuda Trade Union Congress will mark International Workers Day on Monday with a symposium discussing the topic “What is a Living Wage?”

The forum’s panel will include Jason Hayward, Bermuda Public Services Union president, Craig Simmons, Bermuda College lecturer, Nathan Kowalski from the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce, Martha Dismont from the Family Centre, and Youth Parliament Opposition Leader, Destineè Taylor.

The event will take place at St Paul’s Centennial Hall and will begin at 6pm.

This afternoon, on the eve of the symposium, the Progressive Labour Party recognised May 1 as International Workers Day.

A statement released by Walter Roban, the PLP’s acting deputy leader and shadow minister of home affairs said: “This day recognises the achievements of the labour movement and its contribution towards improving the quality of life for workers across the globe.

“The eight hour work day, health benefits, maternity leave, workers’ compensation, health and safety rules, fair wage policies such as equal pay for equal work and nonviolent dispute resolution are concepts that are standard practices today.

”This is because of the advocacy, struggle and success of workers standing up for what is right here in Bermuda and internationally.

“The recessionary period with massive job losses and attempts to roll back the hard fought for rights of workers have reminded us of the significance and need for a strong and united Labour movement.

“When the rights of workers are protected and respected it contributes to a positive, profitable economic environment that benefits worker and employers alike. We stand strong with Bermuda’s workers, trade unions and their social partners on this important day.”

International Workers’ Day or May Day commemorates the historic struggle of working people throughout the world.

It is recognised in almost every country except the United States, Canada, and South Africa, although the holiday began in the 1880s in the United States, with the fight for an eight-hour work day.

Bermuda does not commemorate May Day or International Workers Day either, although there was an attempt to get the Bermuda Government to recognise the day several years ago.