OSHA debate sparks trade union unity

And action being taken by the Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU), which is a member of the Federation of Independent Trade Unions (Fitun), is pushing this unity throughout the movement.

A contingent from the southern-based OWTU will assemble on the greens opposite Whitehall today before and during a Cabinet meeting, with a view to grasping the attention of Government ministers.

Ancil Roget, first vice-president of OWTU, told Newsday that in its protest action, OWTU would welcome the support of other stakeholders, even to the point of commencing dialogue. He was happy to learn that the National Trade Union Centre (Natuc) will be backing the cause.

Generally, Fitun and Natuc are on opposite sides of the fence, but Roget said the occasion calls for a demonstration of what trade union unity is all about.

A Natuc source confirmed that the national labour body will offer support for a common cause which is in the interest of trade union unity.

Meanwhile, OWTU will be represented at the demonstration and rally organised by the Steel Workers’ Union in Couva today.

Yesterday, Natuc representatives met with Prime Minister Patrick Manning, and top of the agenda was the OSHA issue.