Statement prepared by Moses Nagamootoo on behalf of the AFC, read by me to the sugar workers yesterday morning:
The AFC will bring together all what we heard from you on Thursday, and what we will hear today from the workers in Rose Hall Estate and prepare a dossier so we can have a clear position on the issues.
However, so far:
1. AFC leadership was present and gave solidarity on the ground to you, the striking workers.
2. We listened to your grievances.
3. We helped to give media exposure to your cause, and promoted the issues on internet and overseas.
4. We spoke with GAWU president Komal Chand on Thursday, and apprised him of what we were told, and that we wanted GAWU to take up the fight more vigorously.
5. We spoke with Minister of Labour (Government) and former Guysuco Board Chairman (management) NK Gopaul, and asked for his intervention.
6. We learned that GAWU met with Field reps on Friday, and asked that workers return to work.
This is what is called a "wild cat" strike, not supported by GAWU. We have to be careful not to try to take GAWU's place. The sugar industry is facing a crisis and is heading for closure and/or bankruptcy. The AFC cannot allow itself to be used as scapegoat for any loss of workers' job. This is essentially the union's problem, and we are here in solidarity with you, the workers, and not to replace the union.
And so, this is the AFC’s position:
1. We are NOT opposed to resumption of production
2. The return to work has to be conditional;:
(a) no victimisation of any worker/union rep
(b) no loss of man days
(c) union/management should report to workers within 2 weeks on solution to problems.
End.