NATUC commends Duke on his swim

General Secretary of the National Trade Union Centre (NATUC) Michael Annisette today commended the efforts made by Minority Leader of the Tobago House of Assembly and president of the Public Services Association Watson Duke.

In a release, Annisette said Duke sought to bring to the attention of the nation, the plight of the travelling public who use the seabridge between Trinidad and Tobago.

“While some may argue that his approach to bring attention to this contemptible situation was unorthodox, we in NATUC are of the view that when traditional methods are not working, it is time to resort to new and innovative solutions to deal with problems.” He continued, “NATUC shares the pain and distress of the people of Tobago who have been suffering immensely over the colossal failure of the government to address the sea bridge issue in a meaningful way. NATUC therefore welcomes Mr Duke’s symbolic and courageous attempts to bring this despicable issue into the living room of every Trinbagonians.”

Annisette said they have noted with deep concern of the personal attacks being made by Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley on anyone who may share a contrary view to that of his government on the very critical issue.

He said NATUC will continue to raise issues that are affecting the well-being of citizens and in this particular case, the failure of the government to sigh the charter party agreement which has allowed citizens the services of the super-fast Galicia for a further period of two months.

“We trust that the people of Trinidad and Tobago would put aside party politics and deal with the real issues that are affecting the citizenry. Historically, party politics has caused a polarization and a divide in our society and this has resulted in a poor state of affairs for Trinidad and Tobago. We cannot continue to behave like the proverbial ostrich and pretend that these are only minor hiccups and that all is well”

Annisette further added, “All of us are painfully aware that Trinidad and Tobago is in a state of dysfunction and our institutions are failing to deliver the services that are required of them to ensure smooth governance for the citizens. The general public is fast losing faith in the government and these institutions to the county.”

He said Watson Duke has demonstrated he has the testicular fortitude to commit to a cause, and to go the full distance to seek relief for the people of Tobago and by extension, all citizens of TT.