TRINIDAD-LABOUR-Port workers embark upon industrial action

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC – Port workers have downed tools as management and trade union officials were meeting on Tuesday in an effort to end the industrial action that has affected operations at the Port of Port of Spain.

The workers, some of whom have stayed away from the port, have erected red flags on the main road leading to the facility and president general of the Seaman and Waterfront Workers Trade Union (SWWTU), Michael Annisette has accused management of being less than honest with the workers regarding salary increases.

“The workers are frustrated, they are angry over the slow pace of negotiations. They have some health and safety issues too,” Annsiette said, noting that the union was also not pleased with the tactics of the Port Authority to upgrade three workers increasing their salaries and putting them outside of the bargaining unit without first discussing the matter with the union.