Canadian Association “Shocked” At Lawsuit
The Association of Canadian Financial Officers noted their support for BPSU President and People’s Campaign member Jason Hayward, saying they were “shocked and distressed to learn of the defamation suit” and “the fact that a Canadian corporation is involved in the matter to which you raised concerns makes this issue a particular concern of ours.”
Finance Minister Bob Richards launched legal action after Mr Hayward made certain statements about the Minister on a TV appearance in relation to the emails over the airport contract with the Canadian Commercial Corporation.
In a letter sent to Mr Hayward, ACFO President Milt lsaacs said, “You are one of our valued colleagues in the global public sector labour movement and I speak on behalf of the members and staff of the Association of Canadian Financial Officers when I say we were shocked and distressed to learn of the defamation suit you currently face.
“Like you, I believe governments have a responsibility to act in the best interests of all their citizens, not just those with deep pockets. Governments must value fairness and due process over private interests.
“The fact that a Canadian corporation is involved in the matter to which you raised concerns makes this issue a particular concern of ours and I will be reaching out to my colleagues in other Public Service International affiliate unions in this country to see how else we can help.
“Tension between heads of labour and government is never pleasant but when it does happen, it should be diffused with open discourse, not legal measures aimed at quashing free speech.
“We hope the government will reconsider its decision to punish such a passionate advocate of the Bermudian working people. The right to free speech is one of the hallmarks of democracy; it must be protected, not stifled, by our governments.
“On behalf of ACFO, I would like to offer our support to you in this challenging time and to applaud your commitment to fairness and transparency, and of course to the hardworking members of the Bermuda Public Services Union.”
