Bermuda Industrial Union president Derrick Burgess is urging workers to attend a service tomorrow in memory of colleagues jailed after the Belco riots.

He labelled the four - Kenny Paul, Kerwin Ratteray, Vivian Ming and the late George DeSilva - as freedom fighters.

Mr. Burgess also paid tribute to union people Dr. Barbara Ball, Robert Johnson and Gary Caisey who were hauled before the courts but escaped jail after the riot 38 years ago.

He said it was unfortunate that both policemen and workers had been injured in the riots sparked by the union's fight for recognition.

Mr. Burgess said: "It was a day we should remember, we have made some strides since 1965. We have at least six different pieces of labour relations legislation, possibly more to address the issue of workers and employers."

He said it had also sparked a resurgence of the union which had been less than half its present strength of around 4,000 before the riot. He said: "Out of that misfortune came some fortunate things. These workers, I call them freedom fighters, paved the way for a law change.

"Lots of people don't understand or appreciate it. We certainly appreciate all those freedom fighters who fought for us to make things better." The service takes place at St. Paul's AME church on the corner of Victoria and Court Streets at 11 a.m. Mr. Burgess said he hoped to make the service an annual event and he urged everyone to attend. He said: "We want as many people as possible."