Labour divided for celebrations

Both umbrella trade union organisations are expected to stage separate rallies at different locations at the birth of the labour movement — Fyzabad.

At least one trade union, although taking part in the traditional march, will not participate in neither of the rallies being sponsored by the two major umbrella trade union organisations.

Natuc’s second deputy president general, Anthony Sherwood, told Newsday yesterday that this year’s celebrations will begin at Avocat Junction at 9 am for its members and all those willing to join. The march will then proceed to Charlie King Junction, Fyzabad.

He said the union would also utilise a truck equipped with a movable stage from which several speakers will address the march while en route to Fyzabad. Wreaths will also be laid at the grave of Tubal Uriah "Buzz" Butler with a massive rally planned near the Fyzabad Police Station.

Natuc’s theme for the occasion is, "The Social Revolution Continues," and a guest speaker from Africa is expected to address the rally.

Fitun’s march and rally are expected to begin one hour later at the Avocat Junction and culminate with a massive rally at Charlie King Junction, where a number of prominent labour stalwarts are scheduled to attend. OWTU president general, Errol McLeod, and Fitun’s president, David Abdullah, will deliver addresses.

Fitun’s theme is "Social Justice for All." Speakers will address the rising food prices and the distribution of Caroni and Petrotrin lands.

A TTUTA official told Newsday that while its membership would participate in the march, the union’s leadership would not mount Natuc or Fitun’s platform. "Until the fragmentation in the union movement is resolved," the official said, "we will not mount either platform."

The TTUTA action is reminiscent of what occurred at Labour Day celebrations almost two years ago, when its then president, Trevor Oliver, led members through the streets of the rural community between the marches led by Fitun and Natuc.

Meanwhile, Natuc’s Sherwood dismissed suggestions of friction between the opposing umbrella organisations. He pointed out that Natuc was coordinating both its march and wreath-laying celebration in conjunction with the Fyzabad Police Station.

"This year’s march will be carried out with discipline and order," he said.