Port Workers End Strike, Issues Remain

Port of Port-of-Spain workers have returned to work after a brief strike. The stoppage, involving approximately 25 employees, stemmed from long-standing frustrations over stagnant wages and poor working conditions, including rodent infestations and inadequate ventilation. The union president general, who also chairs the company, confirmed that some employees were suspended pending an investigation but stressed no one was terminated.

The dispute highlights concerns about frozen container handling fees since 1995, impacting the company’s ability to meet its contractual obligations and address worker concerns. While temporary workers were employed to maintain essential cargo flow during the strike, talks between the union and management resulted in a resolution, with a two-week timeframe given to address outstanding issues.

The union president acknowledged challenges in improving working conditions, citing issues such as pest control difficulties and restrictions imposed by Customs regulations on installing ventilation improvements. He plans to discuss the financial constraints with the Minister of Finance.

Separately, the president also commented on the recent retrenchment of thousands of workers from the Community-Based Environmental Protection and Enhancement Programme (CEPEP) and Forestry Division, criticizing the government’s approach and urging a reconsideration. He emphasized the significant human impact of the job losses, affecting numerous households. He advocated for a program revamp focusing on worker upskilling and long-term employment solutions.