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Minister of Public Utilities and Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister Barry Padarath has rejected conflict of interest claims raised by the Communication Workers’ Union over TSTT Chairman Kern Dass’ association with a local financial institution, describing the allegations as defamatory and slanderous and confirming that legal action against the union is imminent.
The union had questioned whether the financial institution could receive preferential treatment in matters involving TSTT’s financial affairs. Padarath insisted no such conflict exists, stating that he has every trust in Dass’ ability and that much of what has entered the public domain has no substance or merit. He also warned that unsubstantiated claims made without factual evidence can be both damaging and dangerous.
The minister suggested the allegations form part of a broader effort by the CWU to gain leverage in ongoing negotiations, including its call for a 10 percent wage increase for TSTT workers. According to Padarath, no such offer was ever made.
“At no point in time was a 10% wage offer ever made to the CWU,” he said, adding that he has no intention of being bullied or backed into a corner. Negotiations will continue, he said, but he made it clear there will be no such wage offer for the CWU.
Padarath also referenced a Guardian newspaper front-page report indicating that Dass is taking legal action and said he too intends to pursue legal action based on comments made by the union.
After consulting with Senior Counsel Anand Ramlogan, Padarath said legal documents are being prepared, with pre-action protocol letters expected to be issued to the union once the process is complete.
The dispute unfolds amid continuing wage negotiations between the Government and the Communication Workers’ Union over pay for TSTT workers.
