Senate pays tribute to trade union 'giant' Selwyn John

Christine Kangaloo
Christine Kangaloo

FORMER government senator and former National Union of Government and Federated Workers (NUGFW) president general Selwyn John was remembered as a trade union icon as tributes were paid to him in the Senate on Friday.

John died on September 29 at the age of 84.

Agriculture Minister Clarence Rambharat described him as a stalwart and icon of the trade union movement in TT and the region. He said those who enjoy the fruits of collective bargaining processes, pensions, leave benefits, medical, Cipriani Labour College, workmen's compensation, occupational safety and health owe a lot to John who left a legacy in all these things.

Rambharat recalled he was able to speak on any matter unscripted with a sense of assurance and confidence.

Minister of Agriculture Clarence Rambharat. -

"When it was time for collective bargaining he had a threatening voice and disposition."

He said John continued the tradition of some of the best trade union movement by coming into the senate.

"His loss is a significant loss to TT."

He added: "For all of us who are working people in this country we enjoy what we enjoy because in 1950 as a 15-year-old cleaner Selwyn John joined NUGFW and became a trade unionist."

Opposition Senator Wade Mark said John was well recognised as a trade union leader nationally, regionally and internationally and described him as a trade union "giant".

Oppsition senator Wade Mark. -

"Comrade John displayed many of the cherished values which appear to be in short supply in today's society, namely integrity, honesty, respect, selflessness, trust and genuine care. He was a committed and dedicated trade unionist and leader. He was fearless and indomitable. He always promoted and defended the rights of his members and the working class."

Mark described him as authentic and genuine and proved that workers can win once they are organised, determined and well led. He also remembered him as a devoted family man and father.

"TT is dimmer today without Selwyn John. May his soul rest in power and eternity."

He said John was an ordinary man who lived an extraordinary life and he provided selfless service to all people who approached him for assistance, never turning away anyone. He added John was at the forefront of the struggle of uniting the labour movement and became the first general secretary of the National Trade Union Centre.

Independent Senator Maria Dillon-Remy. -

"Selwyn John as a visionary and a strategic thinker helped to choreograph a new role for the trade union movement in his quest and drive to improve both the working and living conditions of the people he served."

Independent Senator Dr Maria Dillon-Remy expressed sincere condolences on John's passing and described him as an astute trade unionist and trusted member of his community as well as a devoted family man. She noted in 1992 he was awarded the Chaconia Medal (Gold).

"Our nation has lost a true patriot."

Senate President Christine Kangaloo said John capitalised on every opportunity to improve his life and the life of those he served.

"He had an enormous impact on the trade union movement. And he served the movement, his family and the country all his life.

Kangaloo also announced the installation of a speaking booth where the speaker would be allowed to remove their mask. She explained that if members choose to speak by their desk they will not be allowed to remove their masks. She also said that all members allowed would now be allowed in the chamber and the allowance of three minutes to enter the chamber to vote had been removed.

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