Bermuda Trade Union Congress today called for regular dialogue between unions, Government and employers to stave off unrest as a number of labour disputes rumble on.

The BTUC held a press conference to show the solidarity between eight unions on the Island and express concern at the recent issuing of strike notices.

Spokesman Shine Hayward told the media: “While we do appreciate the process of 21-day strike notices and arbitration, our preference is for all of this to be avoided through early and honest dialogue between Government, employers and unions.

“Just like any other relationship, a healthy working relationship requires respect, open dialogue or communication and trust between the parties involved.

“The BTUC has not had to exercise solidarity for any particular affiliate for quite some time and would like to keep it that way.

“In fact we would like to see the 21-day notices and the need for arbitrations to decrease if not disappear through the embracing of regular early, honest and trusting tripartite dialogue.”