Joint Trade Union Movement (JTUM) leader Ancel Roget yesterday called for a radical overhaul of the government, starting with the immediate firing of five Government ministers.
Roget who seemed undaunted by the tropical storm threat, overcast skies and rainy conditions also announced that a Labour Day celebration will be held in streets of Port-of-Spain in August.
The unions were resolved to follow through with the Labour Day celebrations in Fyzabad which marked the 80th anniversary of the oilfield riots. Thousands of workers dressed in their respective union polos marched to the beat of rhythm bands and tambu bamboo chanting traditions solidarity songs.
It was also the first time in many years the three union umbrellas, JTUM, the National Trade Union Centre (NATUC) and the Federation of Independent Trade Unions and Non-governmental Organisations (FITUN) were united for the celebrations. Public Service Association president Watson Duke also attended the event.
Expressing his disappointment with the Government’s performance, Roget said a radical overhaul of the Government was not only necessary, but critical.
“In this overhaul the defective parts must be removed, and new parts must be installed for the proper functioning of the engine of government. The country deserve it and must accept no less,” said the Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union president general.
In this regard, he called, for the removal of Finance Minister Colm Imbert, National Security Minister Edmund Dillon, Public Utilities Minister Fitzgerald Hinds, Tourism Minister Shamfa Cudjoe and Works and Transport Minister Rohan Sinanan.
He also criticised Sinanan for his handling of the seabridge issue to Tobago. Since April 21, after the departure of the MV Superfast Galicia transport of goods and passengers to Tobago have hit several obstacles. The Port Authority is seeking to replace a barge—he Trinity Transporter and the cargo vessel—he Atlantic Provider, both of which have been deemed unsuitable for the job. The two fast ferries have been experiencing significant mechanical problems leaving passengers stranded on many occasions.
Roget said the labour movement will also be embarking on a massive moblisation drive throughout the country which will see them heading to Tobago on June 30.
