To strike or not to strike, that’s the question engaging the minds of our readers this past week.
Some online readers have been discussing talk of a looming national strike triggered by the breakdown of talks between LIME and the Barbados Workers’ Union (BWU).
Some say managing director Alex McDonald should hold his ground, while others are firmly behind the union.
The issue stems from the dismissal of 97 LIME workers and the BWU’s push to get these letters withdrawn. Talks have since broken down between the two groups.
Carl Harper: “This tactic by Sir Roy to force LIME to withdraw letters of severance for 97 former employees is as old as the hills and worn out. He believes that he is playing from a position of strength, given the precarious position in which the country finds itself – [given the] election, Alexandra fiasco and recession. Alex McDonald must stand firm and call the union boss’ bluff. Most of the country is behind you – on this matter. We still expect to see improvements in other areas of LIME’s operations.
“If Sir Roy wants to shut down the country in the midst of the tourist and sugar harvest season as the country grapples with its fiscal difficulties, go right ahead, sir. The blood of the fallout will be on your hands, and your legacy eternally tarnished.”
Jay Tee: “What useful purpose will a general strike [serve]? Absolutely nothing.”
Harold Harris: “All I will say on this matter is that I hope the BWU and LIME can iron out their differences and come to an agreement.”
Judy Clarke: “LIME, please do not be bullied by Sir Roy. Most of Barbados is with you on this issue. My fellow Bajans, do not join the strike for these same people who were rude to you when you needed them.”
Kenny Brathwaite: “National strike? Alexandra School situation No. 2? Does this country need more drama at this stage? I am tired of unions trying to control and run this country. Workers in Barbados would be very ignorant to go on a national strike because of a cutback in staff. Are you saying that as a businessman I am unable to send home staff but [must] continue to operate my business even to its detriment? Hogwash!”
Drew Man: “There are some people who don’t know the seriousness of this matter until they find themselves facing the same situation. Where there is no unity, the people perish.”
Simon Gooding: “The interesting thing about this is, 97 people have lost their jobs. The union comes out to represent the dismissed workers of the company [that] offers bad customer service, which you all complain about. Common sense would tell you that this is [an] opportunity for all people to unite and demand better service from the company instead of fighting against the union.”
• Carol Martindale is THE NATION’s Online Editor.
