Disgruntled phone workers stage protest

HUNDREDS of disgruntled telephone workers staged a surprise demonstration yesterday, outside the TSTT building at the corner of Edward Street and Independence Square.

They were protesting what they called “delaying tactics” by the company in their negotiations for a new collective agreement for junior staff employees. The workers’ action forced the company to call a hurried meeting with the Communication Workers’ Union. Shortly after lunch, the workers marched with placards chanting union slogans. Asked for a comment, Secretary General of the union, Lyle Townsend said fed-up workers promised to continue their action until the negotiations are complete for the 2000-2002 collective bargaining agreement. Protesting workers came from East and Central Trinidad and their counterparts in the South took similar action. Yesterday’s picket line saw retired TSTT workers also taking part. Their protest was about non-payment of pension funds.