Fahy: Govt ‘Not Welcome’ At Labour Day Banquet
On this Labour Day, it is “most unfortunate that the Government finds itself in the position that it is with regards to the Union leadership,” Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy said, adding that “the Union leadership has made it clear that Government is not welcome at the Labour Day Banquet and have also decided that Government should not speak prior to the Labour Day march.”
Minister Fahy said, “On this Labour Day, it is most unfortunate that the Government finds itself in the position that it is with regards to the Union leadership. Last year we could talk. We all came to the table in good faith. I believed we were working to the same ends.
“This Labour Day is much different. The Union leadership has refused to attend quarterly Labour Advisory Council meetings – meetings where Government, Employer representatives and Unions have enjoyed an open and frank exchange of dialogue for years.
“On the back of this stance the Union leadership has made it clear that Government is not welcome at the Labour Day Banquet and have also decided that Government should not speak prior to the Labour Day march, bucking years of tradition. I understand this is due to on-going legal wrangling in the Supreme Court between the Government and Unions.
“The people of Bermuda will recall the marches in February were as a result of the desire of Government to continue furlough days to save jobs in the civil service. The time taken off by participants was not in accordance with any labour law or collective bargaining agreements.
“Government accordingly obtained a temporary injunction to ensure that workers returned to work. All the Government is trying to do now is to ensure that the proper and lawful procedures are followed in the event of industrial action.
“We are not in any way trying to prevent lawful industrial action – rather we are trying to prevent wild cat action that is unlawful and not permissible in the relevant collective bargaining agreements.
“The current relationship with the Union leadership cannot continue if we are to work together to improve the economy and grow jobs for Bermudians. The Government has been accommodating and open about trying to resolve our differences with the Union leadership. It is extremely regrettable that the Union leadership has taken the posture that they have of late.
“The public should be reminded that this Government takes labour relations very seriously and that there are certain protocols in place to ensure workers’ rights are heard.
“I want to remind people that if they do encounter a disagreement or dispute with their employers, the Labour Relations Section of the Department of Workforce Development is an alternate, free dispute resource for them. This Section also assists Unions with disputes and continues to have a good relationship with them.
“From April to August of this year there were approximately 180 new complaints lodged to the Labour Relations Section. The Labour Relations Officers have resolved approximately 40 complaints that have been lodged with the Office.
“It has been noted that encouraging the parties to attend a mediation session has had a positive effect on the process of a dispute. In May and July the Labour Relations staff updated and modernized the policies and procedures for the Section.
“The new and improved policies and procedures took effect on 3 August 2015. I wish to congratulate the Labour Relations staff for all of their hard work in this regard.
“Regardless of what has occurred between Government and the Union leadership of late, I still wish to salute each and every worker for their contribution to Bermuda.
“This Government recognizes that Labour has played a huge part in driving our economy as we seek to re-engage all Bermudians in the workforce so that we can all contribute to Bermuda’s future.
“I remain positive that open dialogue is possible and again extend a hand to the Union leadership to collaborate with Government to ensure success in Bermuda for all work working Bermudians,” Minister Fahy concluded.
Why do the Unions demand that employers abide by the CBA, which is an agreement between workers and employers, but believe they have the ability to ignore it at their wishes?
Didn’t the previous Government forgive a $6mn (at that time, closer to $10mn today I imagine) taxpayer funded debt in return for the end of wild cat (I.e. Illegal strikes)?
So not only do they breach the agreed upon CBAs, but they have also reneged on their promises.
I know there will be some die hard unionists on this thread, so can you please answer the above questions. Why does the Union preach one thing, but yet practice another?
The actual figure that was forgiven was approx. $15mn.
That is taxpayers funds we are talking about.
And that is after the PLP Govt spent nearly $2.5mn in legal fees to fight the Union for the monies they owed.
So not only did the Union’s $15mn debt disappear so did their promise of no illegal wildcat strikes.
In essence the taxpayer got screwed twice in that sweetheart deal.
http://bernews.com/2011/02/no-21-day-strike-notice-72-hours/
Casual Observer, you are correct, the BIU (not all unions) made a “deal” with former Premier Dr. Brown which in essence said before we take any industrial action we’ll have a conversation with you first. Dr. Brown is no longer the Premier.
Unfortunately for you, that debt was essentially taxpayer monies. Not Dr. Brown’s.
Therefore, that promise was to the public. Not to just Dr. Brown.
YOU ARE NOT WELCOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hold on LaVerne Furbert; did you just attempt to justify the actions by the Union (BIU) as being a deal made with the Government/Premier of the day under Dr. Brown, as a representing Leader of Bermuda; no-longer holds water under the current Government of Bermuda and this Leader?
Please tell me I am misreading what you are trying to say here?
So (if I’m reading you right), ANYONE/ORGANIZATION/COUNTRY who makes promises to a Leader of Bermuda is not entitled to uphold that promise if a new Leader is elect, or even further; a Leader from a different Party?
Again I pray I am not understanding you, because that has got to be the DUMBEST thing I’ve ever heard, and any respectable organization would NEVER take a similar stance.
SMDH
So now if the deal is off, give the taxpayers back their money.
You never honoured the agreement in the first place. You owe us our money.
This comment is outrageous! For Ms Furbert, a paid employee of the BIU, to confirm that a deal was made to write-off millions of dollars of taxpayers money in a deal with one man – and once that one man was no longer in power all bets were off, is nothing short of scandalous! Can we have our money back now please, Ms Furbert?
LaVerne, Dr. brown is your cousin and your going to support in right or wrong. So why even bother.
Is that the official position of the BIU Laverne ?
I’m waiting for the official BIU response….where are you ??????
still waiting…..
The Government must admit to their role in the cross X roads between the Union and the Government. This approach by the Government is not helpful to anyone, more so the people of Bermuda. We seem to be headed in the wrong direction. Instead the Government must adopt a model of Consultation and Collaboration in an effort to ensure that all people’s rights are protected.
I direct many to read a brilliant Opinion piece by Wayne B Scott “Governance by Litigation is not Democratic”. In that Opinion piece he speak to the downfalls of a government that attempts to govern by the format of Litigation. Despite the fact we do do live by the rule of law, we do not expect to be governed by magistrates, lawyers, defendants and plaintiffs. He further goes on to suggest that our local politics is becoming a circus played out in the courts due to accusation, allegations and what appears to be outright lies to discredit your opposition politically.
Bermuda Government, we must do better and move forward in a way that benefits all of Bermuda. We can not continue to “WASTE TAX PAYER MONEY” on such Nonsense. Its apparent Bermuda is going around in circles an not moving forward.
As has been pointed out to you on another site, the letter you reference isn’t from Minister Scott, but instead is from another gentleman by the same name.
Please stop with the misinformation.
When did she say it was from Minister Scott? I read Wayne B Scott!
The other gentleman may have the same names in his name but not the same name!
PoliTRICKS in Bermuda is always about whites vs blacks and so on! Always is and always will be.
The UBP/OBA or BIU/PLP name means nothing. I’m not saying it’s a good thing, but it’s a fact!!! The truth hurts.
YOU ARE NOT WELCOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And we dont care! Lmao
No it is not, that is what the PLP play on to make people vote on.
There are some who fall for it.
Dr. Gordon and them would be PROUD of this call.
No, they would say the union is taking backwards steps.
Is the Union invited to the America’s Cup parties?
Hopefully not
Mr. Fahy.
The Unions are PLP.
Hands are at work here and have been for sometime.
Reminds me of the 60′s-70′s +.
All by design.
I Hait to tell you.
Now back to where the hell is out $800 million +.
|
Shalom.
yes please remind of us the 60′s & 70′s, please do. But for some reason, I thought we where supposed to forget that period and get over it, but only bring it up when its convenient for some..
Some being Terry?? Sounds like you are picking a fight with yourself.
cynical sarcasm?
Haiti.
Print that.
About time the Union grew some.
Disenchanted with the union aren’t you. What do you want them to do?
i suppose the UNIONS are doing their masters bidding,the Petulant Liberation Party does not welcome success its new ground to them
immature cheap shots and cynical sarcasm.. ho hum
Fahy should take away the labour day holiday and show them who the real boss is.
Where is Bermuda’s Donald Trump when we need one? Somebody who doesn’t pander to the union and their ridiculous antics all the time… Where art thou testicular fortitude?
WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Let him try it, see what happened when spongeBob sent the letter.
Go ahead and keep on pushing us while the friends and family are receiving monetary favors.
Let him try it & HE will find out who the real bosses are.
The real bosses are the UK Parliament and its military. Let’s see what happens if you riot!
A riot would be dumb.
Just damaging our own country, hurting our own people and costing our own pocket.
Take away a holiday commemorating the struggle for the rights we all share today.
Sad how many people agree with this….
Our current state of affairs.
That rhetoric has always been the state of affairs in Bermuda…Ever since it’s inception.
misconception more like
We do need a leader for this Island….Trump would FIRE all of those in the unions that are trying to frig up our Island…
When is enough of the unions running our Island ? it is time for the ruling party to take charge….
The only real claim to fame that the PLP has is the running around renaming this & that.
Maybe the OBA should rename the day Employers Day. The thing that the union forgets is that without employers there would be no need for labour.
Unions do not create jobs. Employers do. They deserve thanks.
Why we any Govt do that, that is a little extremist.
The Union is very much a redundant group. We have tribunals, and employment law in place today.
Eventually people will wake up and smell the coffee, that they are being forced to pay into a group of people who get paid handsomely, that they really don’t need anymore.
I guess if you had your way Bermuda would be a despotic state?
lol, shocking…. childish children playing adult games.
Sad
Yes, sad for Bermuda.
United We Stand
LOL
So you’re ok with the Unions not abiding by the agreed upon CBAs and previous promises?
In your view are the Unions essentially above the law and the CBAs they agreed on ratifying with the respective employers?
What’s the point of these agreements then and why does only one side have to comply?
He won’t reply.
Hey Toughclit, welcome to the big league.
So you can play dirty and hide behind the Law
You want to treat the people like S!@# and then take them to court because they resist the S!@#, now you’re upset because I don’t invite you to my Birthday Party, even though you have me in court.
Drop the court case then I’ll invite you otherwise …………………………………………………….
You are an embarrassment to Bermuda Onion Juice, do you even live here?
interesting typo in line 1.
The Unions, United against the rest of Bermuda
Bermuda wake up …these so called unions are all about their pay checks… not about you…. wake up you lot….
Like the OBA.
Except the the government gave themselves paycuts, have you seen CF do that. In fact Hayward gave himself a pay check.
How can you stand united if you don’t stand with your largest partner and employer on the celebration of labour day.
Oh, wait, I get it know. United for some, to heck with Bermuda.
United without Alex will never be the same!
Viva la revolution Chris.
Your computers will haunt you once the trail dead ends.
Shalom.
United among yourselves. No one else is united with you.
And DIVIDED we FALL!. Why did you leave this out?
Anyway once again i’ll say…Bermuda is beyond the point of NO return…wait till after the Big Race…hahaha…So just keep on keepin’on,nippin’ at the drapes until the Curtain Falls…Stay tuned folks.
and Dived we Fall, at that Chris Famous is what the new BIU and new PLP are good at doing!
To bad the BIU membership doesn’t have the balz to stand up to Chris. He isn’t half the leader the Otti was or those before him. When was the last time you got compensated by the BIU for the days off you spent marching on their behalf. Actually, here is an easier one for you…when was the first time you received compensation? Ever? Where are your dues going? Where is the money? When you consider the fact that up until about 3 or 4 years ago they (the BIU) was 10+ years behind in submitting their accounts.
Would you invest money or trust a company, bank, government that for over 10+ years failed to produce financials? The BIUs members are lost sheep.
All he has to do is give a speech, have a march and throw in a few wildcat strikes and poof, the members are distracted and all is forgotten! Thank goodness some of the other unions are better structured and have better leaders.
Lmfao
THE UNIONS VS BERMUDA’S ECONOMIC RECOVERY
THE UNIONS VS THE ANTI-BERMUDIAN SYSTEM
PLP LOGIC= ECONOMIC RECOVERY IS ANTI-BERMUDIAN!
If the union was so wonderful, why isn’t it all volunteer workers?
workers are paying those folks some serious change.
I haven’t seen an anti-Bermudian policy yet, what I have seen is a government that understands that this Bermudian first entitlement mentality is what will sink Bermudians and isn’t pandering to it. They have done more of what is right for Bermuda in the long run, rather than the PLP approach of doing what looks right for the short run.
Last year on Labour Day the Government showed up squadded in OBA shirts and then Fahy got on stage and released a diatribe to everyone who was present. Not to mention they are currently suing and attempting to ruin the life of the keynote speaker of the banquet. So I’m not surprised they’re not invited…If they were it would just be a false gesture anyway. Can’t have it both ways OBA,
Ruin the life? Stop with the hyperbole and dramatics.
So you think that the Unions not only can disregard legal agreements and labor laws, but you also believe that union executives can throw around baseless allegations which defame others with impunity? All simply because they are unioners?
Ask Mr. Marc Bean how the defamation case brought agains him recently ended.
You’re double standards are nauseating.
Where the hell did you hear me say that? I’m commenting on the fact that the OBA weren’t invited to a casual BANQUET ffs.
Clearly you are so enraged by my comment that you have concocted a certain image of me and my voting preferences.
@ Casual Observer, so the PLP should’ve taken UBP to court for defamation.
But they took it on the chin now UBP cant take it and acting like little punks.
For what? Show us.
The only little punk here is u
But the unions can.
What they want enjoy the celebrations on Monday, then take us to court on Tuesday, H**L no.
Come onn…. Chris Famous ‘United We Stand’ was not meant and will never mean to be used when convenient. Is this really how Labour progress should be deemed, I know for sure our children are not going to learn anything when it comes to integrity, moral, forward thinking and positive from the current ‘so-called’ leaders that Bermuda now have and may continue to have for the next generation.
God willing there are parents left that will instill the values and attributes of solid attitude to them so the mental/philosophical cleansing i expect and continue to pray for will start with our children that are now 10 yrs old and under, Lord knows i don’t want to paint the entire island with the brush of negativity and un-redemption.
Take this Chris, as a CaribPro man you should be much more wider view and since i am sure you read Nelson Mandela’s books but specifically the one Long Walk to Freedom and he stated “I have walked that long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter; I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb”
The Union and Government whether OBA or PLP we will always have hills due mainly to self interest of a few who has ‘position power’ be reminded His Imperial Majesty says ‘ until bigotry and prejudice and malicious and inhuman self-interest have been replaced by understanding, tolerance and good-will’ there can be no valuable result for us as a people.
Happy and Safe Labour Day to all persons in Bermuda, this is not a Black over White Celebration as some people would want our children to think.
No further proof of what a big bunch of babies the Unions and PLP really are is required.
Pathetic.
So SongeBob is not acting like a baby.
For real – they are the damn Government, have your own damn party then… In the media wining because they didn’t get an invite… SMH We are really in trouble with this bunch.
PLEASE NOTE:-
the Union leadership is NOT welcome at my home or property at anytime!
Ya, remember that when you or anyone in your family gets a lunch break, sick pay, vacation pay, maternity leave, etc and a decent wage to compete with the cost of living, well they haven’t had a raise in about 8 years and every F!@#ing thing is going up, but you got the message.
But they still have their jobs so shut up. Refuse to even acknowledge that not a single one has been let go. Smfh. I guess it pays to have a stupid voting base
Who’d want to break bread with that lot anyway? I’d rather eat rust then sit through that banquet!
Well you do just that then…
What is non amazon is the amount of attacks the unions get on this site from people who hide behind false names.
Just as an FYI a union is not a building nor is it one President.
A union is comprised of individuals of various backgrounds who a part of a specific organization.
Specifically in Bermuda’s case nearly 10,000 individuals. Individuals who like you who attack the unions daily simply want to provide a decent standard of living for themselves and their families.
Yet daily you folks who choose to hide your real identities state all forms of negative about these individuals.
Seriously think about this the next time you decide what you are going to write.
The union members you insult daily are the same persons who perform the following functions of society:-
Clear containers that import your food
Rescue your house from burning
Provide emergency medical attention when you’re at deaths door
Protect your homes 24/7
They are your relatives,spouses friends and neighbors
Yet you choose to demonize them?
No one is demonising the members of the Union.
It is the executive that is deciding to take these actions.
And don’t forget the taxpayers that you demonise above and inconvenience with illegal wild-cat strikes provide the funds for all public services and the dues paid to the executive.
Without us you wouldn’t have public services and without the unionised workers we wouldn’t have those devices provided. Guess what. One can’t exist without the other, so maybe you also should be more understanding.
The question remains.
Why do you and others believe that the Unions are able to contravene the CBAs and labor laws while demanding that the other side abide or else?
Since you’re so brave and use your real name, be even braver than us cowards and answer the question.
Casual Observer, don’t even waste your time. I read an attack on Minister Fahy by the same person you are trying to get through to. I like Mr. Famous and have respected him since I came into contact with him at Bermuda College.
However when I read his comments attacking Minister Fahy just recently on the topic on “Commercial Immigration idea on hold”, it is now BLATANT the mission Mr. Famous is on. I read this same person intentionally twist around another persons words to shed that person in a bad light, and I thought; wow, imagine having some-one do that to me? This is coming from a person who claims NO allegiance to any party and has supported who I THOUGHT was the best Party for Bermuda; and that included the PLP.
Political practices carried out in Bermuda; especially the Party members, has sunk to an all time low. It really makes you wonder what hope does Bermuda have?
We have one Party who is trying to rebuild Bermuda, and are stumbling (as expected) alone the way; and than we have the other Party who are spending ALL their time to discredit the current Government in a bid to win the next election by default as the ONLY other choice.
I fear Bermuda is doomed….
I challenge you to highlight where any unionised worker has been demonised in this thread.
Criticising illegal wild-cat strikes is not demonising.
So show just one post that has demonised any worker. I know for a fact that not all unioners agree with their leaderships’ decisions and actions.
You are simply doing what you always do. That is make up false arguments and deflect from the issue at hand, with that being the Unions do not and should not have the right to breach the labor agreements in which they entered.
I have relatives and friends who are union members and have no trouble telling them why I disagree with the manner in which the unions conduct themselves and why I feel much of it has become harmful to Bermuda. This doesn’t devalue their job and they completely understand why so many have negative feelings towards Bermuda’s unions. In fact, they express their own issues/concerns with their unions but feel powerless/voiceless to have any impact, saying that any form of ‘dissent’ gets bullied away by the fervent, activist oriented members. They express a desire for anonymous voting on issues by members, proper financial accountability of their money and in some cases would like the option to keep their money instead of paying dues.
let the naysayers eat cake…
What the former PLP government did for the BIU in forgiving of it’s backing of the Pro-active building of the Berkeley was a form reparations given the unspoken conspiracy that surrounded and prevented it from getting funding from sources in this country. There is an old saying that native Americans used to speck would be treaty agreements and their failures. ” … folk tongue’. That comes to mind when I hear the comments of Minister Fahy speaks od his disappointment of not been invited to labour Day celebrtions.
Total load of B.S.
The expession is “forked tongue”…like a snake.
Reparations? No doubt you would call wholesale theft “reparations”. With a mindset like that you have no ability to think logically.
I’d rather see true reparations be in the form of guaranteeing a proper, all-encompassing education system for Bermuda’s youth particularly those not well-off, not some kind of ‘forgiveness’ to an organisation.
This whole comment section has once again devolved into the usual mess. Yuck.
Every time a union member pays their dues they should ask the question….what is it you are doing for me again? Ever see a union official lose their job? Take a pay cut? Wear less expensive clothes? Drive a cheaper car? Give up a vacation? Cut back on restaurant meals? You are supposed to work with Government to help get out of the mess you have put us in….
@toughchit Why does the Union preach one thing, but yet practice another? Honestly, we could ask the same question of the OBA!!!!!!!! Too much foolery going on…..people are just trying to survive in these trying times and it’s not getting any easier!!!!!
From what I’ve read and heard, not one civil servant or Union member job has been culled by the OBA.
Neither did they override the labor agreement and institute mandatory furlough days.
The three amigos (Tweed, Hayward and Furbert) are Bermuda royalty. You and the OBA should feel dirty having having dinner with them and being in their company. But then again, we have not seen what it takes to make y’all feel dirty yet.
Quo Fata Ferunt
Did the union leaders put it to a vote of its membership to deny Government interaction on Labour day . Bet not ….. so would be interesting to know how many really do support the leaders decision
I suppose those union members who did not get a chance to vote, or rarely get a chance to vote & never get a chance to vote by secret ballot, should vote with their feet & not show up for the march or events afterwards.
The vote was. Taken in a general. Council. Meeting.
so, not the membership…WHO DO YOU REPRESENT !!!!!
Looks to be like all the UBP now OBA supporters are anti-union. Amazing!!
All I read is about people’s frustration with the conduct of illegal industrial action.
Actions that are not permitted by the agreements voluntarily entered into by the unions and the employer.
Neither side should be permitted to breach the contract. Employer nor worker/unions.
How is expecting all parties to abide by the same agreement that they signed as being anti-union?
Don’t confuse anti union with asking the union to act lawfully and responsibly, since their actions impact all of us it seems.
..And it looks to me like the unions are anti-government – the employer of the majority of the union members. Beautiful.
Typical response actually; not a smart one, but a typical one.
Are you planning to increase the union dues by 17% again Laverne, like last year?
Friggin right we are!!! Why shouldnt we be? Lmao
Whoever is got de most money wins bie! K!
Good!
What a job the OBA is tasked with, cleaning up the financial fiasco they inherited and dealing with a bunch of petulant children! If your child behaved like this you would sit them down and discuss the essence of good character traits and good manners. All the OBA is faced with is a large bunch of egos. Can someone remind the Opposition they are representing all of those residents who voted for them and they have a job to do. Never have I heard of such childish behaviour in a country that needs to mend fences and come together for the common good of the people. Incidentally what is considered ‘Labour’, Are people who work for a living and fully paid up members of their union but not PLP supporters excluded from the celebration too? Please define ‘Labour’. In addition, is this a union celebration or a PLP celebration for all levels of the working class?
First of all we need to let go of the race card. Color is used far too many times as an excuse. Once we start looking at the contents of our character instead of the color of our skin, things might get better in this island. The color of our skin doesn’t speak, it’s what’s in our hearts that comes out of our mouths. There is far too much disrespect amongst our leaders n politicians which is so shameful. It’s no wonder some of our youth are out of control, they are emulating our leaders who are setting such bad examples. Last but not least, money is the root of all evil and a whole lot of fingers are going to burn one day. You might get away with stealing, lying n robbing on this earth but just day is coming n you will pay your debts one way or another. Dear God please keep our young people on the straight and narrow n help them to keep their eyes on you and not the liars, thieves and robbers.
Correction… help our young people to keep their eyes on you and NOT on the liars thieves and robbers.
Friggin children! And you wonder why this island is in deep poo poo!!!!!!!!!! The union or should I say political arm of the Peoples Lost Party, are no more than single minded. I am going to take my ball because you don’t play the way I DEMAND., Your party, your union and sister union ( and dare I say Peoples Campaign although very quite of late ) are so blind it is beyond disgust!!!!!!!!!!!!!! As for the BTUC they are exactly the same
Im gonna say this to all my fellow union members, maybe its time for a change at the top. What else do we have to lose. JB at PHC has done more for that club (and i HATE PHC) then CF has done since being their President. Im just saying. Things need to change and it needs to happen now. I will not be there Mon as i have lost all respect for our leadership. Slowly, we are falling together.
I would like to throw out to the public an idea for a new political Party. One that cares less what COLOR your skin is, what your economic state is, what your past country of originality may have been, if your labor or conservative, union or anti union, get my drift. Perhaps I am talking of UTOPIA but this island is now in state of absolute anti anything., These politicians and their extended operating arms need to go This Island deserves better and should EXPECT better from its current state of affairs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. Sick and tired of the childish games that the Union, PLP, BTUC, and OBA are giving us. You really have to be an OSTICH with your head in the sand to NOT see this island is in DEEP poo and more divided than ever.
Keep paying your dues so leaders can live high. Nice suits and flashy cars.
I don’t know what Fayhe’s talking about . Government isn’t welcomed because they haven’t produced the 2000 jobs they promised two years ago .
The unions have double standard they even haulted the plp sometimes hell they even increased dues when there members had furloughs
Remove your union dues to charity now!!! Charities do more for this island positively than unions. And watch how democracy returns. The unions are totally acting contrary to their mandate!
you don’t half make a fuss over a free meal