PLP: OBA need to address unions' concerns

The Bermuda Progressive Labour Party is disappointed at the OBA's failure to publicly address the concerns raised by Bermuda's unions last week.  Concerns about government layoffs, OBA factual inaccuracies and a seeming unwillingness to engage the unions in meaningful discussions have all created an atmosphere of uncertainty.

The One Bermuda Alliance must move swiftly to engage in tripartite discussions on the issues facing our people during these tough economic times; drawing on talent from all sectors of our community and not just from their friends in the business sector.  From our experience, Bermuda's unions are committed to moving our country forward and over the past two years, willingly partnered with The PLP on solutions that allowed us to reduce spending, prevent massive layoffs and avoid deepening the island's economic crisis.

We are mystified as to why an OBA that has claimed to represent all Bermudians, have yet to engage the intellect, creativity and talent within our unions to reach solutions that will benefit us all.  The OBA should be aware that the Labour Advisory Council is in place already and could play a role immediately in uniting labour, government and the private sector in constructive discussions, yet this resource is being neglected.

The OBA have spoken often of "shared sacrifice," yet to date the burden of sacrifice has been planted squarely on those who can least afford to sacrifice.   In light of layoffs already announced and concerns that the OBA haven't told us the whole story on job security within the civil service, there is understandably a great deal of uncertainty and mistrust within our community.  The OBA owes the people answers and leadership.  So far, both have been in short supply.

For the OBA and Bermuda to succeed they must become responsive to the issues raised by our unions and show a willingness to sit down immediately as equal partners.  This tripartite partnership is key to our emerging from the recession united in sacrifice and united in the work to bring our country forward.