rfORKER^ VOICE Volume 45. No.23 Friday, April 24, 2009 Price 50 cents 62 Years Old and StiU United! By LaVeme Furbert (based on The History of the Bermuda Industrial Union by Ira Philip)
Ms. Iris Davis, daughter of BWA founder, Brother William Davis, and Brother Austin Wilson, another BWA founder, stand out the carpenter's show where the Bermuda Workera Association was founded. Sixty-two years ago, on AprU 24, 1947, the Bermuda However, this fea did not stop Walton St. George Brown Industrial Union became a registered trade union. According to (grandfether of Senator Walton Brown) fixjm organizing the The History ofthe Bermuda Industrial Union by Ira PhiUp, the sugar cane workers in St. Lucia during the World War of 1939 - formal appUcation for registration was made to the Registrar of 1945. Brown later became their elected representative in the St. the Supreme Court in January 1947 but it was not granted untU Lucia Executive CouncU. April after Dr. E. E Gordon threatened to sue the Registrar ofthe "....for generations, Bermudians had been indoarinated with Supreme Court because of the inordinate delay sus(>ected to be the propaganda that they were not, ideologically or otherwise, a aimed at obstructing and finjstrating labors forward thrust. part of the Caribbean, and that Bermudians were different from History has recorded that it was Dr. Gordon who their neighboring cousins," wtites Mr. PhUip. "The tme feet founded the labour movement in Bermuda. According to Mr. was that people in and of Bermuda had a pivotal role in Britain's PhiUp, the workers in Bermuda were the last to be organized in suppression of the workers in the Caribbean and in the the Island territories of the Atlantic and Caribbean area. Continued on page 12
WORKERS VOICE NOW 50 CENTS For the first time m well over a decade, the price of the Workers Voice has been increased from twenty-five cents to fifty cents. Readers wili appreciate that the cost of printing and production of printed material In Bermuda has increased over the years and the Workers Voice, has had to meet the cost. Additionally, for the first time in the history of the Worl •V Bermudian Architect Harold Conyers Backs W&E Minister By LaVeme Furbert WeU-known and well-qualified Bermudian architect, Harold Conyers, who has supervised several major construction projects in Bermuda has confirmed Minister Derrick Burgess' statement that the Police/Court building "is StiU more than capable of being placed back on track and could still in principle be brought to completion on time and budget, despite the initial difficulties which have been experienced". Mr Conyers, who was responsible for some of the largest building projects in Bermuda, also said that it is not unusual for large projects, such as the Police/ Court building to experience problems during construction. "Invariably, costs change mosdy due CO an owner wanting extra work done," explainal Mr. Conyers. "Or it could Minister Derrick Burgess (center) along with Permanent Secretary, Robert Horton be any other unforeseen circumstance (far left) Eddy Henri, Harold Conyers and Bob Northrcott, an associate of Mr. Conyers (I-r) impacting the cost/time line of the work, such as more rain days than the hard rock and unsuit^le ground conditions superintendent; James Young, the site historical average causing worfc interruption which could not have been foreseen by superintendent; and Kevin Smith, the before a building is enclosed." the Ministry's engineers or the site foreman and safety oflficer for LLC At a recent press conference. Contractor. These conditions are Bermuda Ltd.," lauded Minister Burgess. Minister Burgess said that he was encountered on many lai^e construction "These gendemen, aU Bemiudians, are pleased to report that the latest projects and the new Magistrates' doing an exemplary job maintaining the construction schedule issued by the Court/Hamilton Police Station oinstnicrion site and in ensuring that progress is Contractor, LLC Bermuda Ltd., shows project was no exception. Therefore, we maintained. I must dte also the continuing late October 2010 as the substantial reiterate our satisfaction with the outstanding leadership of Eddy Henri in completion date of the Magistrates' progress and with the acceleration in che overseeing the project on Government's Court/Hamilton Police Station oonstnicoon schedule that is occurring." behalf and keeping it moving in the project. This fact was agreed to by Mr. Mr. Conyers agreed with right direction and the support provided Conyers, as well as Mr. Eddy Henri, Minister Burgess saying that the contractors by Conyers and Associates Ltd., who is the Government's Representative were moving at an acceptable pace. He Architects for the project. I dte in parricular who is overseeing the work on the site. also concurred that che workmanship by che excellent contriburion being made by "It must be noted that the original the contractors was consistent with the Mr. Harold Conyers, a prindpal in thac firm." "substantial completion date" set by the requirements of the contract document Mr. Conyers said that he and Ministry of Works and Engineering was and said that he was very satisfied with Mr. Henri had worked together on the 19th August, 2010, a date based upon the quality of work of the mostly Waterfront building on the site of the construction beginning on 21st January, Bermudian workforce on sice. old Pearman Watlington building. Additionally he told the Workers Voice 2008, stated Minister Burgess. "As has "We wish to take this opportunity that two of the projects he had worked b«n statal previously, some inirial slippage to highlight and commend the efforts of on were cwice as large as the Police/ in the schedule occurred due primarUy some of the people on site, individuals Court building. • to geotechnical condicions caused by like Brendon Harris, the assistant THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 LETTER TO THE EDITOR IMPLICATIONS OF POWER INTERNATIONAL ACCEPTANCE OF THE BERMUDA SCHOOL CERTIFICATE (BSC) Dear Editor, Dear Madam: Internationally there were two government takeovers reported in the media in March 2009. One was the Did you know that the Bermuda School Certificate dissolution of the Turks and Caicos government by the is accepted internationaUy? Yes, indeed it is. Students who British Parliament and che installation of the British successfully complete the S4 year in Bermudas public Governor for Turks and Caicos to have power over the school system can continue their education elsewhere if ministries and other state departments. The other they choose. They are accepted in accredited universities takeover was thac in Madagascar, where che President was and colleges in the United States, Canada and Britain. deposed in a military coup and the coup leader stated he Dalhousie University Admission requirements for will be working towards a cooperative government in two students from Bermuda: Bermuda Secondary School years time. Obviously these two situations are totally Certificate (BSSC) or the new Bermuda School different and have very complex starting and ending Certificate (BSC) or General Certificate of Education points not to mention the points in between. However, a (GCE) or SAT or ACT or 1st year Bermuda College. key factor that is occutring in the two scenarios is the Queens University in Ontario, Canada has similar impUcations of power. requirements. The U.S. requires all international smdents to sit the SAT. Smdents going to the U.K. might require the 1st year Bermuda CoUege depending on the type of course they are entering. Since we have added an additional year (S4), it is up to Bermuda to negotiate this new situation with Britain. What further proof of international acceptance is required? But we have some internal obstacles to acceptance of the BSC. Those who choose the recipients of scholar ships still view the BSC negatively. No school system has a 100% success rate but we in Bermuda only highlight the failures in our system and never celebrate our successes which we have every year. C^uld this behaviour of d^rading things Bermudian be linked to colonial thinking and David Chapman, a PhD student at Royal Holloway College In attitudes? What do you think? England, talks to his son Judah's classmates about his Daddy As long as we continue to disenfranchise the and I Explore.... Books. Bermudian, the anti-sodal behariour within our community Indeed that is what dependency, as in British will continue to exist and fester. Such behaviour is a product Dependent Territory, is aU about - rhe power of one of low self-esteem and alienation. If our education system group over another. A baby is dependent on its mother does not promote Bermuda and Bermudians as the lens because the mother has the power to obtain food for it through which we view ourselves and the world, than we and the baby doesn't. A plant is dependent on the sun will self-destruct. because the plant needs the sun's energy to provide it with If we are to properly educate our children and buUd the food it needs to survive. In Madagascar, the coup our country, we must value our culmre, maintain our leader was able to depose the president because he had Bermuda curriculum and give it credit as do others in the power with the backing of the army, and some say USA, Canada and Britain. We must ensure that Bermuda Continued on pap 16 Continued on page 17 THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17.2009 Appiications Invited For The Ministry of Health today announced today that the applications for the Dr. Barbara Ball Public Health Scholarship may be submitted Friday 15 May 2009. The Ministry of Health first launched the Dr Barbara Ball Scholarship in April last year Dr. Barbara Ball to recognize Dr. Ball as a heroine of the medical profession and labour movement Scholarship ior of Bermuda. Dr. Ball was bom in Bermuda on the 13 June 1924. She was highly respected and Public Health became increasingly popular in the black community of Bermuda as a liberal, white, female doctor who portrayed none of the racist trappings that were evident amongst others in her privileged environment during the 1950's and 60's. In 1962. Dr. Ball became the General Secretary of the Benmuda Industrial Union and regardless of the pressures of her labour career, always maintained a thriving medical practice which comprised of all races and ethnicities. Dr. Ball served as a Progressive Labour Party Opposition Member of Pariiament for two successive tenns in 1968 and 1972. She was also the first Member of Parliament to hold the position of Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee. She was the first female doctor to practice medicine in Bermuda; the first female black belt judo expert; the first medical practitioner to be suspended from the hospital; the first white person to hold an official post with the Bermuda Industrial Union; the first female to represent Bermuda's workers tiefore the United Nations; the first female official of the Bermuda Industrial Union to be elected to the House of Assembly and, to date, the only female to appear twfore the Supreme Court on two cxx:asions to answer charges relating to political and social activism. When the scholarship was offered last year, Minister of Health the Honourable Nelson BA Bascome JP, MP noted that the Bemiuda Govemment recognized Dr, Barbara Bertha Ball as a hero of the Bermudian people and one who has blazed a trail in order to make life twtter for those who have come behind her. Scholarships may be offered for study in: nursing, ooDupational therapy, speech therapy, maternal care, dental hygiene, dentistry, psychiatry, dnjg counseling, social work, occupational safety and health, environmental health and medical studies. APPLICANTS MUST: • Be a resident of Bermuda; • Possess Bermuda status or be the dependent of a Benmudian; • Be accepted for admission to an approved programme of study ^ in an accredited institution; and • Achieve the minimum academic requirements for their programme of study, if in an existing programme. Nine scholarships were awarded in 2008 in such areas as medidne, dentistry, speech therapy, occupational therapy and nursing. Application forms may tw picked up from April 6 at the Ministry of Health Headquarters, the Cabinet Office or the Government's Department of Communication and Information. Additionally, the application can be downloaded from the Bermuda Govemment website - www.gov.bm. www.gov.bm APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED UNTIL 5:00 P.M. 15 MAY, 2009. THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 Parish Councils making impressive improvements in 2009 members and acknowledged the very The Central Parish CouncU important role that Parish Councils workshop was considered a tremendous contribute to the residents of Bermuda. success by all those in attendance. m 'it Minister Bascome acknowledged Panicipants remarked that this was a that while each parish faced diflFerent wonderful opportunity to unify and challenges, the purpose ofthe Workshop share knowledge that wUl bring benefit was to enhance the skiUs of Parish to all residents of Bermuda. The third Council members and to promote workshop for eastern Parish Councils is standardized practice. planned for the near future. Parish Councils, formerly For further information on the Parish Vestries, continue to play an Parish Councils, please contact Mr. important role in Bermuda. Each Parish Ottiwell Simmons, Parish Council CouncU foUows the Parish Councils Act Coordinator through the Ministry of of 1971 which details their specific Culmre and Social RehabUitation at Ottiwell Simmons ^. functions, one of which is to bring to HYPERLINK "mailto:[email protected]" Parish Cbuncil members from the Ministers attention any matter [email protected] or telephone 504-2058.• central Parish Councils attended a affecting the general welfare of persons half-day workshop last Thursday, resident in the parish. (March 26), to discuss improvements in Attorney Ms. Shade Sabair the way they conduci business and made a presentation to the parish THE WORKERS VOICE handle their financial reporting. councU members on the various sections PUBLISHED BY THE Council members from of the Act and explained compUance Bermuda Industrial Union Pembroke, Devonshire, Paget, as weU as and responsibility. 49 Union Square some members from Southampton and A complete review of the Hamilton HM 12 Warwick, gathered at Bermuda College financial reporting requirements was Bermuda for a 4-hour workshop to review conducted by Mr. Gabriel Broomes, 1(441)292-0044 finandal record management, conducting ControUer to the Ministry of Culture F (441) 295-7992 meetings, best practice guidelines and and Social RehabUitation. Mr. Broomes E [email protected] the Parish CouncU Act 1971. This was congratulated those Parish CouncUs that the second workshop of three planned have brought their accounts up to date RESEARCH OFFICER AND for Western, Central and Eastern Parish and completed the audit process with EDITORIAL ADVISOR Councils. The first Workshop was held the Office of the Auditor General. Calvin Smith ([email protected]) in December 2008. All Parish CouncUs have been EDITOR The workshops are being the working hard to bring their accounts up LaVeme Furbert led by Hon. Ottiwell Simmons, JP, who to date and properly account for is the Parish Councils Coordinator. Mr. previous years' expenditures, and are LAYOUT AND DESIGN Simmons invited six CouncU members working hard to restore the good name Phaedra Howes from each Parish ClouncU to attend, of the Parish Coundls and promote aU GENERAL COUNCIL along with guest speakers to review the that they do for the benefit of residents REPRESENTATIVES legal and financial responsibUities that of Bermuda. Shirlene Simons Parish Councils must follow. Permanent Secretary, Mr. David Bean The Hon. Nelson Bascome, JP Wayne Carey, closed the meeting with Roger Pams MP, Minister of Health, standing in for words of encouragement. He noted that PRINTED BY Hon. Dale Buder, JP MP, Minister of progress was being made by Parish The Bermuda Press Ltd. Culture and Social Rehabilitation (who Councils to bring their accounting was off Island), gave the opening records up to date and avoid any further remarks to the assembled Council instances of late reporting. THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 The Impending Energy Crisis On Wednesday, AprU 01, 2009, I read a Of course the current is often dismpted series of articles in the Royal Gazette due to the passing of hurricane force describing the Presentation of the govern winds. However, even than, many resi ment green paper on energy to ParUament dents do not experience a loss of power, by Minister Terry Lister, I was most especiaUy if they live in or near the city. impressed by the demonstrated skiU ofthe With such an assurance that we can get Royal Gazette reporter — Amanda Dale - electticity whenever we puU a switch, we in making a very important and equaUy certainly do not give any thought as to complex subject very teadable (Of course whether this abUity is under threat because she may be a graduate in Electrical the resource that makes possible instant Engineering). and continuous electridty generation is I found that I understood over 90% ofthe not renewable. I refer of course to the fos- sU fuel which we use in the form of oU. report of a very complex subject without BY CALVIN SMITH reference to the Wikipedia Encydopedia. According to the Wikipedia encyclopedia, "FossU fud is a general term for buried In faa, I am confident that readers with But what about the other sources of ener combustible geologic deposits of organic less education than me but who were very gy? Minister Lister discusses several. materials, formed from decayed plants and experienced in handling electrical equip These are listed in previous paragraphs. animals that have been converted to crude ment had no problem at all in deciphering Of the vatious sources listed, Mr. Lister oU, coal, natural gas, or heavy oUs by expo what the artide was all about. places most emphasis on wind and solar sure to heat and pressure, in the earths Of course, in my enthusiasm to congram energy to provide significant support to crust over hundreds of miUions of years". late Ms. Dale I must not lose sight of the the existing sources of fossU energy used by Obviously, the definition makes it clear feet that Minister Lister also made a brU- Bermudians. With respect to wind ener that fossU fuel is something that is not Uant presentation thereby doing justice to gy. Minister Lister states the following. replaceable in our very short expected Ufe what must have been an enormous task for Bermuda has a strong wind resource, esti span of three score and ten. This fiid hard pressed much criticized civU servants. mated to be on average over several metres cakes hundreds of miUions of years before Again my congratulations to aU con per second". Apparendy this wind speed it can take the form of cmde oU, natural cerned. is far in excess of what is required to con gas or heavy oils. For that reason, fossil What impressed me most about the artide vert the energy available in the wind into fuels are truly irreplaceable. was the ability of the reporter to translate mechanical energy. This brings us to the question; can we whar must have been a very complex sub replace fossil fliels as an energy source? With respect to solar energy, Mr. Lister ject into language that I am confident that The answer given by the Minister is "We notes, "Bermuda's strong solar resource the layman readUy understood. This is of cannot yet replace fbssU fuels but we can at can be utiUsed to produce both electricity first importance when one considers that least support our diminishing supply vtith and heat for water. One of the simplest aU most of us know about electricity is that new and different fiiels that are In fiict uses of solar energy is to heat water". when you hit a switch the lights go on. If replaceable". He lists these fuels as solar Clearly, Bermuda's wind and solar they dont than it is likdy that you've energy, w energy, heat fix>m waste inciner resources can be devdoped very quickly to missed at least three months payment to ation, and the action of waves. provide significant support to our existing the Bermuda Electric Light Company In addition, he emphasizes that we must oU based energy system. Govemment is (BELCO). We certainly give no thought change our life styles by incorporating more than aware of this possibUity as evi as to how the electridty is generated. Nor behaviour pattems that lead to the conser denced by steps already taken to make do we think that the feUure of the Ughts vation of our diminishing fossil energy smart meters compulsory on all new "to go on" is because the company is con suppUes wherever possible. For example, buildings. The meters wiU direct the serving power as is often the case in terri we need to pay much more attention to energy flows to and from the host building tories to the South of us. No! We assuine our parents oft repeated plea, "Tum those depending upon the amount of energy instandy that we must have missed pay Ughts off when you leave a room". being consumed. ments to BELCO. Continued on page 19 THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 The Good Old Days of Cronyism and Nepotism at its Best BY E. MCNEIL STO\T Ha! Ha! I just can't help stop laughing when I hear slavery srraight into economic slavery. those poor misguided politicians of che UBP condemn the Yes sir, cronyism and nepotism it sure was! If the PLP government ofall chings - cronyism and nepotism. police cars, vans and public works trucks that 1 saw on Imagine, after 378 years of exercising che same old Bermuda's roads over the many years didn't come from PW's, blatant cronyism and nepotism the moment it raises its head they then came from Bermuda Motors or Holmes, WUliams other then rhose who had practiced it best. One needs to know & Purvey Ltd. So, who do you think was cleaning up on all that in the good old world of politics there is this saying that those nice juicy milUon dollar government contracts over the goes something like this, "ifyou scratch my back, I'll scratch years? Not some black guys from back of town, I can teU you. yours". V 1 It was a nice way of helping their friends' business I don't think that there is any one political party from going belly up, you know, keeping the black ink from anywhere in the world - and that may well be throughout the turning blood red on their balance sheets, or better stiU, universe - that doesn't reward their supporters and friends for welfare from the rich. helping them win their party's election. You can bet your I don't think that I would be frir from the truth if I bottom dollar that the Democrats in the U.S. wiU be handing were to say that I don't think that any of the families Usted ouc political gifts over the next year or more to their most valuable above voted for the PLP in the last election or in any other friends and supporters who helped them win this last election. election. And to think that aU of a sudden here comes the It is something that would be most difficult to stop no matter Royal Gazette so very late in the day, moaning and groaning who ever is elected to government, and that, believe it or not, about some Freedom of Information Act. I wonder where they even includes the UBP. gor that sudden bright idea from. Ifyou want to talk about cronyism and nepotism, let's The media did not have the nerve to push for it before take a good look at where the wealth of Bermuda has been November 9, 1998. I wonder why. I do remember back in the residing over the past 378 years before the November 9, 1998 1980s when the BIU's Doreen Lightboume was banned from election, and in some cases, even where some of it stiU rests attending government press conferences at the Cabinet even today. I have in my possession an American travel building because she was one of those who dared to challenge magazine that was printed in May 1947. In this magazine the existing government point by point on their poUcies and there is an article that gives the readers the impression that programmes. It seemed as ifthe Royal Gazette under David L. only a few powerful rich (amUies of Bermuda owned the White, the then editor, took a great delight in the UBP island, lock, stock and barrel. Let me give you some of the government's action against Mrs. Lightboume, and printed names that were touted as being the legitimate owners of all "Government Shuts the Mouth " as headline in their Bermuda — Butterfield, Cox, Darrell, Gosling, Spurling, newspaper in reference ro her. Where were the cries for the Smith, Watiington, Trimingham, Trott, Tucker, Blucks, just to democratic freedom ofthe press then? The day is late on their name a few and in later years came the Gibbons' family. behalf to be talking about corruption, cronyism and nepotism, Not only did these people control every aspect of for their sword of ethics and morality is duU on both sides Bermuda's political institutions, but owned just about from way back in time. everything that was of great monetary value and importance to The question to ask, is cronyism and nepotism all of Bermudians' needs. They had majority control over ethical? It may not be, but I have as yet to see any newly BelCo and TelCO, and in just about every other important elected government come out of the front doors of any ,, economic institution such as all the banks, investment parliament anywhere in the world and announce to the world companies, insurance companies, ali the major law firms, aU of how they would be awarding juicy million dollar contracts to the major department stores, both retail and wholesale, and any oftheir friends or supporters. They just don't do it. were agents for all rhe cars, trucks, motorcycles and appliances I could bet you that those in the UBP can't wait to ^ sold in Bermuda, and just about anything else one would need win back government so they too can get back to doing all of CO Uve on this rock out in che middle ofthe Atiantic Ocean. chat which they have been accusing the PLP government of Yes, they had us just where it hurt us the most - in doing. After all, that's backroom language that's not meant for our pockets. They owncd 90% of the share capital in just the public's eats, ifyou know what I mean. So, the UBP finds about all of the companies of major economic interest in themselves starving, do they? • Bermuda. If you ask me, we were released from physical THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 H Bermuda's Captains of Industry A Somber Group It was a somber group of see many landlords changing their Bermuda's captains of industry that minds as to how high they wiU raise appeared on national television along their rents. with Bermuda's political leadership to Still, I wonder how much announce the formation of a national influence the group "Bermuda First" group caUing itself "Bermuda First". wiU have on policy - government and This is in response to the economic private. WUl they step in when it comes crisis that has struck che world and is to the cost of living? What wiU they do now a gathering force in Bermuda. if unemployment becomes a real ctisis in The group makes an interesting Bermuda? focus of commenr. Everyone from Already Bermuda's foreign Bermuda's major building speculator, Sir workforce is beginning to feel the John Swan co the CEO of one of consequences of the economic down Bermuda's largest insurance companies, turn and this is beginning to have an the Argus Group of Companies, who impact on rents. WiU a political alliance recentiy has been at great pains to hold between the Government and the declare that all is righr financially Opposition? I beUeve it is going to be despite some economic set-backs their hard for the UBP poUtical opposition company is experiencing. This marks not to play politics with the economic the first time that Government and the woes that are likely to hit Bermuda as Opposition and Bermuda's captains of they have so far showed. I can't see how industry have come together on a com the government can be blamed for the not take action against the richest and mon issue dealing with Bermuda's tourism downmrn. I don't think anyone best mn Black Country in the world. national interests. is deaf, dumb, or blind to what we see Oh really? It will not be Bermuda first, Maybe now Bermudians wiU on our televisions screens as far as the if American jobs are at stake, or for that reaUze how serious things have become American job situation is concerned; matter, if American tax doUars are on economically and begin co take their and that is the country from which we the table. heads out of che sand. It is not untU we draw the majority ofour tourists. 1 said that when Obama begin to see the loss ofour own job that It is not just blue collar workers became the President I was as happy as we realize this economic crisis is for real; or grassroots workers that are finding every other black person on the planet and every day we are hearing about themselves unemployed, but professionals to see a black man become the President more job losses as well as stories about as well and these are the people that we of the United States, as racist as che Bermudians with degrees now having to depend on to jump up during the good country has been known to be. But I settle for lower grades of jobs that they times and take a trip to Bermuda. remember saying to myself that I wUl would have never considered last year A lot of people are losing feith celebrate for one day than it wiU be his this time. in Presidenc Obama as it looks like country's interests and my country's Another thing that we are seeing he is going to hit our most vaunted interests. And speaking of interests, have more and more is the presence of "For international business. Weil, he is an you noticed chat Britain, our so-caUed Rent" signs outside of Bermudian American and he will act in America's mother country has once again thrown homes. If you look in the newspapers best interests. I had to smile when a us under the bus during che recent G-20 you will see that the asking prices for black American television personality in economic meeting and did noc speak a rents are stiU high but I have a feeUng a recent speaking tour co the island word in our defense? Bermuda will have that before the end of the year we wiU daimed that President Obama would its version of the Boston Tea party yet. • THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 Political Interference Practiced Only Since 1998? V In my opinion che cerm "poUtical on November 9, 1998. At that time allegedly helped someone to secure interference" has only been used in Jerome Dill was the Minister of housing chrough che Bermuda Housing Bermuda since November 9, 1998 and Education and hence responsible for the Corporation. ThankliiUy, the magistrate only been reported by the media since administration of Bermuda CoUege. Ic found no case to answer. However, I'm that date. Prior to that when Members was no secret co chose of us that worked sure that there are many Bermudians of Bermuda's Parliament assisted their who can cite incidents prior to constituents or their supporters it was November 9, 1998 when they requested called something else and was never United Bermuda Party Members of reported by any of the local media. In Parliament to "politically interfere" so fact, prior to November 9, 1998, ifa that they could obtain jobs, housing and member of the public believed that other fevours. I remember people in political interference had prevented Somerset saying they voted for "FUp" them from getting a job or a contract Galloway, because he let them charge with government, a morcgage or even a their gas ar Bermuda Gas & UtiUty, and rental property through Bermuda "Hackey" Davis would brag that he was Housing Corporation there was nothing able to retain his seat in HamUton that the aggrieved person could do. Parish because of the number of favours There was no Ombudsman (or that he would pass on to his Ombudswoman), no Labour Relations constiments. But that was not cronyism Department that would handle such or corruption. That was accepted cases, and no Human Rights practice. In Bermuda corruption is a Commission chat would dare chaUenge term reserved for PLP politicians. the status quo. In face in today's Most unfortunate about the Bermuda, political interference is often matter of alleged corruption amongst referred to as "corruption". PLP politicians is that the message has In today's Bermuda (AprU 7, been subliminally passed on to others in 2009) that is the Bermuda where its there, although not publicized in the our community. Hence, now we hear of inhabitants are encouraged to "celebrate" Royal Gazette at the time, that he created other people who look like me who are four hundreds years of sertlement, che a position on the Executive Floor for his in leadership positions being accused of daily newspaper formerly known as the wife (at the time). This decision by the being corrupt in spite of their many "Bermuda Colonist" but now the Royal former Minister of Education was not years of service to the country and to the Gazette, the headlines for the lead story described as "political interference", organizations to which they belong. is "Premier accused of polirical interference cronyism, nepotism, or corruprion, the A few yeare ago when my son in sacking". I have no doubt that had it words that are currently used to describe and I were renovating our home, a been known that che a^rieved employee actions by most PLP Ministers. In fact, young man who lives close by voiced to of the African Diaspora Hetirage Trail the incident never made it to the media. others in the community that I must be (ADHT) was assisted by the Premier Can you imagine if a PLP Member of involved in corruption because my and Tourism Minister in obtaining Parliament had created a job for his home was undergoing renovations. It employment, the headline in the Royal wife? Bill Zuill, Tom Vesey, Tim did not occur to him that I had worked Gazette would have been "Premier Hodgson and Stuan Hayward would hard all my life and should be able to at accused of political interference in have wrinen oodles of column inches least enjoy some of the fruits of my hiring". Either way, the Premier of about the matter. Yet, at the time they labour. The same goes for anybody who Bermuda is damned if he does, and all remained silent. looks Uke me and has worked hard. damned ifhe doesn't. Bermudians should not forget We all should be able to enjoy the fruits I was working at Bermuda that Minister Nelson Bascome was of our labour, and not be accused of corruption. • ' College when the PLP won the election accused of corruption because he THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 '«^, A Play Written & Directed by Joy Wilson-Tucker at St Paul A.M,E. Centemiial Hall April 25 09 Doors open ypm show Starts 7:30pm Hosted by Bermudian Heritage A^soci ation 295-2757 mAGi ^^OMOVtl"*^ 1609 ] THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 Dr. Eugene Harvey to Receive Bermuda Health Foundation Salute to Service Award Bermuda. Other honorees have included addition to the Salute to Service Award Mr. Reginald Burrows, JP, Mr. Bruce Dinner, the Bermuda Health Foundation Barritt, Rev. Dr. Vernon G. Lambe, Sr., host its annual golf tournament on Ms. Liz Boden and Finance Minister, Saturday June 20, 2009. die Hon. Paula Cox, JP, MP. "Recognizing the current Philip Butterfield, Chairman of economic cUmate, the Bermuda Health Bermuda Health Foundation said that Foundation is hopeful that our efforts he is hopeful that this year's event wUl be wiU cx)ntinue to be supported by the as successful as past events, in spite of business community," said Mr. the economic climate. Butterfield. • "My brothers. Dr. Ewarr Brown and Vincent HoUinsid, believe that we should give back to the community that Tickets for the luncheon are has given so much to us, hence the availabkat $100.00. Dn Ei^ene Harvey will be honoured Bermuda Health Foundation,"explained Intetested persons may contact by Bermuda Health Foundation as this Mf. Butterfield. "Our primary purpose LaVerne Furbert at year's Salute To Service Award event. is to provide scholarships for BermucUan 293-8232 or by e-mail at Most people will know Dr. Harvey as a smdents pursuing careers in the medical [email protected] much beloved general practitioner who field." retired from his medical practice in Chairman of The Bermuda 1999 after over thirty years of service to Health Foundation, PhUip Butterfield his patients. Dr. Harvey continues to said "Our Foundation is a Bermuda PUZZLE*SOLUTION serve the Bermudian community, most registered charity, that was founded by notably as a volunteer with Keep myself, my brothers Vincent HoUinsid FRIENDSHIP Bermuda Beautiful. In 2000, Dr. and Dr. Ewan Brown, JP, MP, and Harvey joined the Board of KBB and Murray Brown. The primary purpose of presendy serves as Director. He has also rhe Foundation is to provide spent many volunteer hours ai the Barn scholarships for Bermudian students which is mn by the Bermuda Hospitals pursuing careers in the medical field. It Women's Auxiliary. is common knowledge that there is a For the past six years The shortage of healthcare providers globaUy Bermuda Health Foundation has hosted and Bermuda is no exception. Hence their Annual Salute to Service Award the efforts of the Foundation to assist as Dinner in June, however, because of the many students as possible who have chosen global economic climate, the to serve the Bermudian community Foundation will be honouring Dr. through medicine." Harvey at a luncheon to be held at the According to Mr. Butterfield, ACQUAirrtANCE COMPANION HONESTY Fairmont HamUton Princess Hotel on AFFECTION COMRADE KINSHIP the Bermuda Health Foundation has AFFINITY CONFIDE LEND Wednesday, June 17, 2009. Last year the MIY EMPATHY LOYALTY provided almosr $200,000 in scholarships AMIGO FAVOR PAL foundation honoured Dr. Clarence AMrrY FONDNESS ROOMMATE to nineteen (19) Bermudian BOYFRIEND FRIENDUNESS SHARE James, CBE, JP for his contribution to BUDDY FUN SUPPORTIVE students. Last year five (5) Bermudian CHUM GIRLFRIEND SYMPATHY Bermuda's political life, his involvement smdents wete awarded scholarships in CLOSENESS GOOD TIMES TRUST in freemasonry and of course his die amount of $15,000.00 each. The hidden message Is: CAMARADERIE contribution to the medical field in Mr. Butterfield said that in THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 62 Years Old and Still United! continued fiom pag^i Base (NOB) in Southampton who had formed the NOB maintenance of her colonialist and racist poUcies there." Workers Association on June 21, 1944 in a shed at Brother According to Mr. Philip, Dr. Gordon artived in Davis' home. Bermuda in 1924 and found Bermuda not only to be different, Sbtty-two workers from the NOB attended the fust but also indifferent. "The whites were nasty to say the least," Mr. meeting and elected Brother Brangman as president. Brother PhUip quotes Dr. Gordon. "They felt secure in their abiUty to WUson as vice president. Brother Davis as treasurer and Brother control aU facets of the island's economic, political and social Pearman as secretary. Hie boldness of the NOB workers had an affairs through merciless intimidation, victimization and abuse island-wide impact that was swift, and so contagious that steps ofthe political and legal process." were taken overnight to have a mass meedng in Hamilton on the following Sunday which was encouraged by Dr. Eustace Cann (the father of Chief Medical Officer, Dr. John Cann). This meeting was held at Aeolian HaU on Angle Streer in Hamilron and there was standing room only. At the meeting Dr. Cann urged the workers to go all the way in buUding an organization that encompassed the full principles of unionism, saying that anything less would not be efFective. He urged the workers to unite under one banner, coUectivdy present their grievances to the Govemment and above aU, to stick with the organization through thick and thin and co make the necessary sacrifices, even though cheir immediate results might seem nU. Mr. David Tucker termed the AeoUan Hall meeting "an epoch- making event", being the first time in the history of Bermuda Hundreds of Bemiudians tumed up at Aeolian Hali in June 1944 for that labour had oi^anized on such a scale to fight for its rights the BWA meeting. and to get justice. He considered it particularly heartening to see Not only did Dr. Gordon find a different breed of the number of women involved. Labour could not expea to get whites ftom what he was accustomed to in the Caribbean, but he a fair wage unless and until it had formed a pemianent organization also found a different crop of black people as wdl, particularly and spoke with a voice of thousands not as one crying in the black eUte who displayed a discernable anti-West Indian bias. the wUderness. Particulariy irksome was the fea that Black doctors were not allowed to practice in the one-and-orUy government-subsidized general hospital. King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, as well as in the public health sector. In order to be regisrered to practice in Bermuda, doctors were required to pass an examination set by the Bermuda Medical Board. Alrhoug^ he had practiced medicine in Scodand, Trinidad and Dominica where he held the post of Chief Government Medical Supervisor, Dr. Gordon found confronting him a virtually impossible examinarion that he regarded as a calculated insult to his inteUigence and dignity and designed to fell him. However, much to the chagrin of the EstabUshment, Dr. Gordon passed che examination and they were obUged to Ucense him. It was therefore not surprising to some Bermudians when our Premier, Dr. Ewart Brown initially failed the Dr. Gordon returns from taking tiie historic BWA petition to London Examination set by the Bermuda Medical Board when he returned The meeting, which was chaired by Mr. Brangman, home to Bermuda some fe)rty years after Dr. Gordon's experience. reached a climax when a motion proposed by Mr. Vemon Trott Iwenry years after his arrival in Bermuda, Dr. Gordon and seconded by Mr. George Pearman and enthusiasticaUy joined with Brothers Austin Wilson (grandfather of Attorney adopted without dissent had che effea of changing the name of General Kim Wilson), Gerald Brangman, William Davis and the organization from the NOB Workmen's Association to that George Pearman (Unde of BIU Research Officer Calvin Smirh of Bermuda Workers' Association. and recently deceased Editor of the Workers Voice, Lionel Because of his stout championship of labour causes. Dr. Pearman). AU ofthe men were woricers on the Naval Operating Caim was st^gested as the first president; however he declined, Continued on page 18 THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 .•ftC'-. aOOD¥YEAR 10% ALL TYRES WHEN YOU PRESENT THIS COUPON A %j^%>%»»iv^^ FREE FITTING FOR ALL CARS -^ii'^M. Te I e p h o n e =?^r^/tAT * 236-3011 THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 PUZZLE*PUZZLE*PUZZLE*PUZZLE FRIENDSHIP Find and circle ail of tiie words tiiat are iiidden in tlie grid. The remaining letters speii an additionai word reiated to friendship, D C B C C A M D K c 0 F A S R N E O 0 A 0 N Y 0 1 R G S D Y E T Y N E E M M T 1 N E 1 H L 1 A F F L V R P E 1 N S T M L R M R 1 A A 1 N A E N A H A A F M t D D M D T S N P 1 F 1 E L 0 E E B L 1 0 R M 1 F F R P R 0 N U 1 P L T Y 0 E 0 A F T 1 R D N E C A S Y C P H N S A G D E L 0 Y A L T Y S P U R R Y S G 0 0 D T 1 M E S R U 1 O S C H U M H 0 N E S T Y F S V 1 " E c N A T N 1 A U Q C A U E A Y H T A P M F S R F N n N O F ACQUAINTANCE COMPANION HONESTY CA ro AFFECIiON COMRADE KINSHIP C AFFINITY CONFIDE LEND ALLY • EMPATHY LOYALTY 0 AMIGO FAVOR PAL z AMITY . FONDNESS ROOMMATE o(A J BOYFRIENC) FRIENDLINESS SHARE z . BUDDY FUN SUPPORTIVE G) CHUM GIRLFRIEND SYMPATHY m CLOSENESS GOOD TIMES TRUST c 00 'v ,: ' -•,.. '*" • ' THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 »» •jsteir: My Pond by Dakari White Behind my house there is a pond. It is summer and the water shines like a mirror and see my face smUing back at me. Then my reflection starts to twist and turn. I look up and see ducks swimming by. They are what caused the ripples. It is a mocher duck with five Uttle ducklings in tow. They are bright yeUow with Uttle beady black eyes. They seem to stand out on the lake like littie stars in a dark black space. I hear their litde peeps as they call out for their mother. Her loud trumpet ofa quack seems to setde them. Scattered all around the lake I see Uly pads and cane grass. As I inhale, the sweet smeU ofthe sugar cane dives deep into my nose. Ir makes me think of my mothers sweet pancake syrup. A dragonfly lands on a Uly pad. Ic's a beautiful insect, its four bright blue wings shining in the sunlight. As it takes off I foUow it with my eyes. It dances through the air ever so elegandy, almost as if gravity has no efFect on its travel. I follow it untU it is out of my view. Then, in the distance, I notice something eise. Dark grey douds roll over the hills in my direction. I hear rhe &int crackling of thunder far off, a warning caU. Inside I must go. Goodbye pond. covered and dead. Nothing moves. Not even the wind seems to work on a day Uke this. But now I see something move out of the corner of my eye. I look to my right and focus long and hard. AU ofmy senses are alert. Once again I see something hop. I see two big white ears sticking up out of the snow. It is a funny sight and I start to chuckle. The snow rabbit continues to hop along at a slow pace. As it comes closer I can just make out two small black eyes. They seem to upset his otherwise perfect white coat. His smaU nose tvtitches in the air, trying to pick up the scent of danger. Then he continues hopping along. I watch hi for a little while longer and then I smeU something. As I mm around, I see smoke coming from the chimney of my Madison Thompson and Haley Barnett picked Easter Lilies with the Govemor to send to Buckingham Palace. Utde cottage. I can smeU the food that my mother has cooked. I feel and hear my stomach growUng, urging me I am back at the pond. It is winter and what was towards home. I turn around and give the pond one last once a beautiful mirror is now a frozen white planer. I look look. There is no sound, no taste, no smeU. Just the pond, around and see nothing. The sky is a light tinted grey. I frozen and lonely. I must go for now. Goodbye pond. • cannot see che sun. 1 listen and hear no quacking of ducks or buzzing of dragonfly wings. I inhale, long and deep, but Editor's Note: The above essay VMS written by Daiari, an S2 student at the instead of sweat smeUs, there is now a cold, dry air that Berkeley Institute. His former guidance counsellor at Clearwater Middle School, Ms. Sbacolbi Baisden -was so impressed with the essay she ashd us to publish it in stings my nostrils. As 1 look out over the hills and plains, tbe Workers Voice. We are always happy tofeatur e young Bermudian writers, u what was once green and bursting with life is now snow THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 LETTER TO THE EDITOR IMPLICATIONS OF POWER land tights disputes in Australasia, now Turks and Caicos continued from page 3 and many more conflict issues around the world aU have the people, to do so. In Turks and Caicos, the British their roots in the seeds sown by that era of colonialism. Government had the power to remove the Premier and Indeed, the colonialism perpetuated by the British dissolve parliament because they had the constimtional Crown ofwhich Bermuda is a part of, is one of particular power to do so. This is what being a British Dependent viciousness. It is masked behind a weU constructed and Territory is founded on - the relationship of power over very complex facade of democratisation and freedom. the powerless and the guise of pseudo-power through When viewed in its legal context, the Crown itself is a constitutional self-governance. HYPERLINK" http://en. wikipedia.org/wiki/Corporation Even though the Turks and Caicos people had a _sole"corporation sole that represents the legal embodi national election in 2007 at which time the local people ment of the Executive Governmenc. In HYPERLINK elected their representatives, the British parliament has " he tp://en. wikipedia.org/wiki/English_Law" the power to cancel that in one sweeping blow. Many English Law, a corporation sole is a HYPERLINK critics of this move by the British ask why was this "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juristic_person" method was the one chosen. Surely, ifthe people of Turks legal entity consisting of a single ('sole') incorporated and Caicos were truly dismayed at their government, the office, occupied by a single ('sole') man or woman. This Members of Parliament who represent the people would allows a corporation to pass verticaUy in time from one and could caU for a vote of no confidence in the Premier office holder to the nott successor-in-office, giving the Where was the Opposition and what was their role in the position legal continuity with each subsequent office mnning of the country? There could also have been a holder having identical powers co his predecessor. This proactive stance taken by the previous Governor, who single entity is embodied by the British Monarchy. started the Commission of Inquiry. While the particulars In fact, the Bfitish monarch is not one but several ofthe actual state of the Turks and Caicos government in corporations, one each for each of the Commonwealth regards to corruprion and eflfective governance can be countries the British Crown holds. Likewise, where these debaced once the official British Commission of Inquiry countties are federated, meaning they contain different by Commissioner Sir Robin Auld is released, what is states, these different states are held under the British dear is that British colonialism stiU exists in the 21st Crown as weU. Each one of these locations has a cenmry, although by a different name. Governor or Governor General who represents the British Crown. In this way, immense swathes of land are held The implications for Bermuda and indeed rhe rest of globally under these srructures, some which are the 13 British dependent territories is huge. Bermuda's recognised by che moniker overseas dependent territory, independence as a nation is an issue much larger than some having achieved political independence such as Bermuda itself It is an issue that actuaUy is about Australia, Canada and Jamaica and some owned outright decolonisation, not only for Bermuda but for many other as crown dependencies such as Jersey and Guernsey. locales around the world. Although colonialism has been practiced by one power over another since antiquity, it is Lets be clear, colonialism is an extension of imperialism the episodes of colonisation that have taken place post-13th and its intention is clear, that is, the subjugation of a century by the European powers that continue to shape people under the sovereignty of another national power our geo-politics today. Along with Bermuda's continued As stated in the United Nations Declaration on the colonial status and the associated on-island debate, a Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and plethora of international concerns as varied and vast such Peoples - resolution 1514 (XV), "colonialism is the as the past British-Irish conflicts, South African subjection of peoples to alien subjugation, domination Apartheid, Russian-Ukraine gas disputes, Israel-Hamas and exploitation, constitutes a denial of fundamental dispute, on^ing conflicts in East Central Africa, aboriginal human rights, is contrary to che United Nations Charter, Contlnuedon next page THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 LETTER TO THE EDITOR IMPLICATIONS OF POWER economic stability and the issue of free travel to the UK continued from page 16 and Europe. For most Bermudians, even without the and is an impediment to the promotion of world peace special arrangements we currently enjoy of being able to and cooperation, and that steps should be taken to transfer, apply for a British Passport, visiting and working in the unconditionally, all powers to the HYPERLINK UK is readily accessible. "http://www.un.org/Depts/dpi/decolonization/trust2.ht As to our economic stabUity, this fear of loss is the m'Trust and Non-Self-Goveming Territories so that they mosr revealing issue into the Bermuda psyche. It shows might enjoy complete freedom and independence". the depth at which we attribute our success ro the work Malcom X, who later would cake on the name El Hajj of others where in reality it is che 'other' who has been Malik Shabazz, would speak on colonialism many cimes. successful due to our work Turks and Caicos, Uke In his famous "Chickens come home co roost" speech in Bermuda, is home to thousands of intemational businesses. 1963, he drew a comparison between colonialism, When we question our abUity to be independent, we trans-adantic slavery and the biblical event of enslavement question our ability to govern ourselves, to feed ourselves ofthe Hebrews by the Egyptian Pharoah. He reminded us and ro shape our own national destiny. We equate that the socio-political thought processes that have oursdves to a cdiUd who fears living the home once achieving brought us modern day colonialism where the same roots adulthood or a fiUl grown bird who is coo scared to leave thac brought us these two slavery events. Although the the nest even after taking their first successful flights. individuals in governments who perpetuated this period We have become lila those slaves who after emancipation of history have changed, the governmental systems that felt that they were better off in servimde to their former hold this system in place has not. In reality, it has become masters as they had no confidence in their abUity to take deepened through not orUy systematic nuances but also care oftheir own selves. The recent developments in Turks through the history numbing affects of neo-colonialism. and Caicos show us exacdy how much true power As the recent poU conducted by Research.bm outlines, we acmaUy have over our own affairs and who at this there is much division in opinion on the issue of constimtional juncture, can control our destiny without Bermudas independence. There are splits along lines of even so much as a visit to our beautiful island shores. • political affiUation, race and economic standing. For me, what this demonstrates is that Bermudians in general David Chapman do not know the abUities of their self to self-govern and to succeed. It suggests a chronic myopia, one that demonsrrates that many Bermudians, whether white or black, rich or poor, do not imderstand the sensitivities of international cooperation and that there is much fear over INTERNATIONAL ACCEPTANCE OF THE losing things that are in reaUty will not be lost. For those BERMUDA SCHOOL CERTIFICATE (BSC) that do know, yet stiU perpetuate a climate of negativity continuedfro m page 3 and fear on Bermuda's abiUty to operate as a fuUy takes ownership and responsibiUty for its own fiiture and independent nation, suggests that have their own selfish embraces the 21st cenmry by ensuring that Bermuda's interests to protect, whether those interest be an affinity to culture is at the centre of our education and the lens the coloniser or a fear of the leveling of the playing field. through which we understand the world. This is what wUl Any one that weighs the cost and benefits of our make learning relevant. The rigor is in the actual teaching. atrachment to the UK wiU see that there is no direa benefit We do not need some one else's curriculum to achieve incurred on Bermuda as a result of this rdationship that greatness as a people and as a country. • can not occur if this was to be altered to one ofan independent y. Bermuda. The main issue of benefit most quoted, are A Proud Bermudian 'V THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 "We're Not Banks"Campaign Nets Polish Credit Union Movement Positive Returns Two-week ad series garners prime time and front page importantly, the campaign further defined the difference news coverage. With the global economic crisis creeping between Poland's financial cooperatives, "It is imporranr to closer to Poland, the country's credit unions have sought to spread the message that there is a different type of banking— diffetentiate themselves from the competition, comprised human banking," said Grzegorz Bierecki, NACSCU's mostiy of foreign-owned banks. Their resulting two-week ad president. "People want to do business with instimtions that campaign has created a furor of publicity in Poland's financial will not hurt them. Credit unions are local, member-owned services sector. institutions and the only ones people currently can trust." The campaign's tagline, "Don't blame us! We're not "The banks wanted the campaign banned," Grzesik banks," appeared on billboards, in newspaper ads, radio and said. "They said the ads su^ested Poland's banks were not television commercials. The pointed message, developed by secure, something we never said. We merely noted that credit the National Association of Co-operative Savings & Credit unions were not involved in creating the global financial crisis, Unions (NACSCU), Poland's credir union trade group, and that's a fact." • attracted consumers' atrention and bankers' ire. Most 62 Years Old and Still United! continuedfiompageia campaign regarding the petition ofthe Secretary of State. On October 1, 1946, the draft BIU constimtion with its forty- eight dauses was presented to a general membership meeting of the BWA meeting in Alexandrina HaU. The idea was to have the framework for the union completed before Dr. Gordon's departure ro London on November 2, 1946. Upon his return from London, the first order of business was to caU a BWA membership meeting at which Dr. Gordon oudined a three-point programme caUing, (1) for the creation of the BIU, (2) formation ofa Progressive Bermuda League ro deal with the poUtical interests of workers and, (3) the incoiporation of the BWA, which would function as parent body of the other two entities whUe engaging in commercial and sodal functions. Editor's Note: The History ofthe Bermuda Industrial Union is 1959 Dockers Strike available at BIU Headquarters. • smting he needed to devote more time to his medical practice. The next obvious cdioice for the presidency was Dr. Gordon, who deliberately did not attend the meeting, but scayed in the background giving advice. The latter half of 1946 and the first quarter of 1947 was a hectic petiod for the Executive Committee ofthe BWA. With che enactment ofthe Trade Union and Trades Dispute Act looming, che Executive began in June drafting a constitution to cope with its ramificarions. They were convinced that the law was designed CO ctipple the BWA as a workers' association. If it faUed to register, ss a trade union it would be in an iUegal position. Ifit registered, it would be limited in the application of its funds for economic enterptises and poiitical activities. In chat same time frame, the Executive was planning the launch of the island-wide 1965 Belco Strike THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 Building & Woodworkers International Address Migrant Workers Issues There are 17.1 miUion migrant WTO should not be the place for decisions Furthermore, as incUcated in artide workers across Africa, 44.5 miUion in in this area. Should any governments 7 of our statutes, "Where the members of North America, 6.7 milUon in Central and nonetheless make ofers in this area, these one ofthe affiUated organisations are posred South America, 58.3 miUion in Asia and must be preceded by formal trade union to another country, they shaU be entided, Oceania, and 64.1 miUion in Europe. In aU consultation and refer to respect for on the basis oftheir membership, to obtain of these regions at least 10 to 15 per cent national labour law and existing coUective advice and information free of charge from are irtegular migrants. agreements in receiving countries, as weU as the affiUated oigaiiisation(s) in the country For the BWI, the current trencis fimdamental workers' rights, in order co of employment. Where a member of one in subcontracting and privatization make it ensure that migrant workers receive ofthe affUiated organisation is migrating to crucial fbr the trade union movement to employment conditions equal to those of another country, the affiliated organisation urgentiy tackle this issue. nationals. We also push for an ILO in this countty shaU take the necessary In our industries, construction has a standard on contraa labour. steps to ensure that an uninterrupted long tradition of exploiting migrant labour BWI affiliates are particularly membership can be guaranteed." from lower-wage economies. As many encouraged to: Thus, BWI continues to recommend countries continue to rely on migrant • increase trade union awareness on the bilateral co-operation, agreements and workers, construction work has become issue and continue to campaign against exchange of information. Affiliates in increasingly Temporary and insecure. racism and xenophobia Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Migrant workers are paid low vrages and are • gather rdevanr information and data on Holland, Czech and Slovak RepubUcs, not covered by social and labour l^latiorL migration in our seaors and exchar^ Poland and in the Nordic countries We continue to put pressure on the information between sending and receiv developed a variety of acti\nries such as WTO r^arding the General Agreement ing countries co-operation ^cements on collective on Trade in Services (GATS) which vtiU • organise migrant and aoss-border woric- bargaining, mutual recognition of affect che construction industry and lead to ers and ensure equal pay for equal work membership for cross border workers or an increase of migrant and cross border for employees regardless of their origin l^al assistance for their members. An work The competences and stmcture of and nationaUty. agreement on migrant workers was signed the WTO do not enable it to regulate the • urge their govemements to adopt appro- in April 2005 between NFCCWU from temporary cross-border movement of priare global l^islation and protection Taiwan and NUBCW from the workers, as envisaged under the Mode IV • establish agreements between unions in Philippines. Workers wdio wUl migrate to negotiations, in a manner that protects source and destination countries and to either country will be assured same. • migrant worksrs' rigors and consecjuendy the The Impending Energy Crisis continued from page 6 Of equal importance is the promise by Green Paper". inexperienced govemment is introduc Minister Lister that "The Government For me, the presentation of the ing a fundamental technology that wiU wiU lead by example through the initiation Energy Green Paper took me back to the no doubt guarantee the continued prof of projects that vtiU join schools, hospitals, election of 1998 when government itable existence of the businesses owned and Government agencies in adopting changed hands for the first time since by the major critics o^ the currenr PLP eneigy conservation/effidency prc^rammes the introduction of party-government in government. and alternative/renewable energy 1963- Prior to and including 1998, the technologies "Energy policy, recurring reason given by the ruUng HYPERLINK legislation and regulation will be UBP for not eleaing the PLP was that "maiito:[email protected]" covered in detail in a separare industry- they did not have the experience to Calvin(®northrock.bm • orientated supplement to this Energy run a country. Yet a Minister of this -t- THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009 SHOWTIMES UBERTY Dragonball:Evolution FRI. APRIL 17 2:30 • 7:30 SAT. APRIL 18 2:30 - 5:00 SUN. APRIL 19 2:30 • 5:00 MON. APRIL 20 2:30 • 7:00 TUE. APRIL 21 2:30 • 7:00 WED. APRIL 22 2:30 • 7:00 THURS. APRIL 23 2:30' 7:00 NEPTUNE Race To Witch Mountain FRI. APRIL 17 7:30 SAT. APRIL 18 5:30 SUN. APRIL 19 2:30 MON. APRIL 20 - THURS. APRIL 23 CLOSED PRICES 2:30 PM EVERYONE $7 EVENINGS EVERYONE $9 BOX OFFICE OPENS LIBERTY FRI 6:30 - 9:45 SAT 1:30 - 3:00 & 4:30 - 9:45 SUN 1:30-3:00 4 4:30-8:00 MON - THUR 1:30 - 3:00 & 4:30 - 9:45 NEPTUNE FRI 6:30 - 9:45 SAT 1:30 • 3:00 & 4:30 - 9:45 SUN 1:30-3:00 & 4:30-8:00 MON - THUR 1:30 - 3:00 & 4:30 - 9:45 d films require persons under the age of 28 years to be accompani nee tickets and movie gift vouchers are available from Liberty Theatre office from 11:30 am fo 5:30 pm Mpnday to Friday (except Public Holidays). 1 THE WORKERS VOICE APRIL 17,2009