BPSU: threats against trade unionism remain ‘real’
A leading union official said that threats against trade unionism remain “real and persistent”.
Kevin Grant, the general secretary of the Bermuda Public Services Union, meanwhile highlighted the “resilience” of the workforce.
His comments were made as the island prepares for Labour Day observances on Monday at Union Square.
The event is to be hosted by the Joint Labour Day Committee, a sub-committee of the Bermuda Trade Union Congress.
Celebrations this year will be held under the theme “Labour is the Link”.
Mr Grant said that the theme highlights the vital role that the labour movement has played, and continues to play, in weaving together the fabric of society.
In a statement, he added: “Labour is the crucial connection between economic growth and social justice, between progress and fairness and between the recognition of workers and the wellbeing of our entire community.
“Labour has been the link that secured collective bargaining, consultation and collaboration.
“Labour has been the link that established benefits for workers and protection of their rights.”
Mr Grant said that the link honours forefathers, whom he noted “bravely fought for workers’ rights and built the foundation”.
He added: “We must defend against those who would seek to weaken or dismantle this foundation.”
The BPSU general secretary reminded stakeholders of their duty to maintain a strong connection to their roots, while building the links necessary to sustain and strengthen the movement for future generations.
Mr Grant said: “We must link more deeply with our members, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs represented.
“We must strengthen our link with young workers, who are the future leaders of the movement.
“We must link with change, recognising and responding to new challenges such as artificial intelligence, climate change and mental health in the workplace.”
Most importantly, he said people must “link more closely with each other because we are only as strong as our weakest link”.
Mr Grant said weak links occur when communications falter, when collaboration is neglected and when co-ordination breaks down.
He said they also happen when respect is abandoned.
The union leader added: “We cannot allow outside influences to distract or divide us from our mission: the defence of workers’ rights, protections and dignity in the workplace.
“We honour the sacrifices of those who came before us by staying united and unwavering in our purpose.
“Let us embrace the spirit of this year’s theme, ‘Labour is the Link,’ a link not only to our own wellbeing, but also to the sustainability and strength of trade unionism in Bermuda.”
Separately, the Bermuda Industrial Union called for “co-ordinated action” to address challenges faced by the island.
The BIU said: “Bermuda is facing unprecedented economic pressures.
“The cost of living has reached historic highs, affecting workers and families across the island.
“While progress is being made in certain sectors, urgent, co-ordinated action is needed to address these challenges and restore confidence.”
However, the BIU listed the anticipated reopening of the Fairmont Southampton and the proposed healthcare facility at Morgan’s Point as “promising developments”.
It said both projects vowed to create jobs and stimulate economic activity.
The BIU said: “These initiatives, together with the collective efforts of Bermuda’s trade unions in advocating for fair wages, safe workplaces and the rights of all workers, signal a renewed pathway where labour remains central to Bermuda’s progress.”
The BIU said that the 2025 Labour Day theme served as a reminder that the resilience, dedication and collective efforts of Bermuda’s workforce are central to building a stronger, fairer and more prosperous island.
The union reaffirmed that labour is more than a word, it is a link to Bermuda’s future.
It said: “By working together — government, employers and unions — we can build an economy that values people as much as profits and ensures opportunity and security for all Bermudians.
“Let us celebrate the achievements of workers past and present while looking forward with hope, determination and a shared commitment to a stronger Bermuda.”
• To view the Bermuda Public Services Union and Bermuda Industrial Union statements in full, see Related Media
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