Bermuda Public Services Union President Kevin Grant has warned the aftershocks of the recession has shaken the foundation of trade unionism to its very core.Mr Grant was addressing a handful of the Island’s workforce at Victoria Park yesterday, to commemorate May Day, which is recognised as International Workers Day in many countries around the world.“With the strong tremors of a recession still being felt we are seeing the very foundation of trade unionism under threat,” said Mr Grant.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.“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, “ he added.“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.”The event was organised by the Bermuda Trade Union Congress, headed by Wendell ‘Shine’ Hayward who led the list of trade unionists who gathered to commemorate May 1, the official Labour Day holiday in 80 countries worldwide.“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.”He added: “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.”Other speakers included Arnold Smith on behalf of BIU and Detective Sergeant Kevin Christopher for the Bermuda Police Association.