BIU has issues with Parks, Marine and Ports

The Bermuda Industrial Union (BIU) has submitted a list of problems its members have with the management of two government departments to the home affairs minister.

BIU president Chris Furbert yesterday confirmed he has delivered a list of grievances to Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy concerning “issues” his membership has with the Parks Department, as well as with the Marine and Ports Department.

Mr Furbert did not expound upon what those issues were, nor did he indicate whether or not he was confident any differences could be quickly resolved. 

The development comes less than a week after a strike hampered public transit on the island for more than a day. 

That stoppage had its genesis in a handful of workers being made redundant at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess. 

However, in announcing the end of the industrial action, Mr. Furbert revealed both workers from both Parks and Marine and Ports had come close to striking in recent weeks, saying the union has some “very serious concerns that need to be addressed”.

He added, “If this isn’t going to be an eye-opener for the country, I don’t know what it’s going to take. If you think yesterday was bad, it could get a whole lot worse.”

A Government spokesperson told us last night: “The Ministries of Public Works and Tourism and Transport are aware of the issues and working with the respective Departments and Bermuda Industrial Union to find a resolution.”