Government remains committed to creating an environment that supports positive labour relations, as it understands the pivotal role of labour in the context of sustainable development and competitiveness in the global market. So said Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley in his Labour Day message to the nation. Labour Day will be commemorated tomorrow.
In a statement yesterday, Rowley called for a re-commitment to further strengthening social dialogue processes to afford each and every citizen the opportunity for better living and working conditions.
He said from an initial ten trade unions in Trinidad, by the end of 1938, more than in any other West Indian colony at the time, T&T now boasts over 40 trade unions representing all classes and categories of blue and white-collar workers.
He said, “We have consistently encouraged open dialogue with the unions and we respect and facilitate the collective bargaining process. All of us in T&T want to see this country proceed along the path to prosperity and overcome the challenges we currently face. Over the past few months we have witnessed some positive developments–our talks with energy sector leaders and partners both here and abroad are beginning to bear fruit.”
Rowley said Government continues to actualise its plan of diversification into those areas where it can be competitive, such as the creative industries, tourism, maritime related services and ICT-enabled services.
“We have to respect one another across the bargaining table with a view to attaining win-win scenarios that work in the best interest of workers, employers and ultimately our country.”
