Amid allegations of sabotage and vandalism, executives of the Oilfields Workers Trade Union have vowed to expel any worker of Trinidad Cement Limited (TCL) who comes to their strike camp under the influence. The warning comes from OWTU branch president Lawrence Renaud, as he addressed strikers who gathered for the fifth day outside the TCL, Claxton Bay compound.
General Secretary of the OWTU and Government Senator, David Abdulah, as well as a team from the Police Complaints Authority, visited the strike camp and addressed workers. Renaud said his warning to workers came following reports from shuttle driver, Kevin Holder, that inebriated workers had initiated Tuesday's scuffle, which is currently being investigated by the PCA.
"We are hearing that TCL workers are drinking down by the fishing bay and coming to the camp drunk. I don't know that there is anybody here under the influence but I want to say that there must be no alcohol in the camp. We must have a well organised, disciplined camp to win this struggle," Renaud told his comrades.
Meanwhile team leader of the PCA, Joyce David, took statements from workers. She declined to say whether disciplinary action will be taken against anyone, adding that the enquiry had just started. Abdulah, who also met with workers, said he was confident that the strikers were strong. Asked whether the OWTU will be assisting the strikers financially, Abdulah said the union does not have a strike fund.
He explained that union dues cannot be used for a strike fund but the union has developed internal ways of dealing with their struggles. Abdulah said he was appreciative of the solidarity displayed by the workers. "TCL workers have been engaged in peaceful picketing. It is a right we have had for 75 years and we are not ready to let it go," Abdulah said. He noted that camps are well organised and well disciplined. Abdulah said anyone who wants to contribute to the struggle can make donations at the strike camp.
Several workers at the camp said they were prepared for the long haul. Learie Mike, who has three children, said he had no choice but to strike. He said although he does not have an income, he is satisfied God will take care of his family. Elvin Brown, a father of two, said his wife had agreed to meet all commitments until the strike ends.