CTUSAB paid tribute to former Prime Minister Owen Arthur, who passed away on Monday at age 70. Following is the statement.
“The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) joins with the nation in paying tribute to the life and memory of the late Professor, the Rt. Hon. Owen Seymour Arthur, former Prime Minister of Barbados.
“The island nation has lost a distinguished leader whose contributions have left an indelible mark on Barbados as a developing island state. Long will he be remembered for his work and service to this nation, which has contributed to its earning of global recognition and respect.
“The labour movement of Barbados takes pride in recognising the fact that the economic and social policies he pursued while he served as Prime Minister, between 1994 and 2008, were intended to improve the social and economic well-being of working-class people.
“As the architect of the policy of inclusion, he took a decisive step in this practice to ensure the participation of the best talents available and to permit the engagement of all stakeholders in the governance process. With his understanding and appreciation for inclusiveness in the decision-making process, he strongly supported the development of the Social Partnership mechanism; which has cemented itself as part of the governance model of Barbados.
“The labour movement has benefitted from his progressive thinking and insightfulness. A lasting memory of this, rest in his understanding of the need to promote the unity of workers, which was demonstrated through his administration’s piloting of the Protective Services Act 2001-3 through the Parliament of Barbados.
“The Caribbean region has lost a stateman, who up to the time of his passing was serving in [the] capacity as Chairman of the regional airline LIAT and, in so doing, demonstrated his commitment to the promotion of regionalism.
“On behalf of the workers of the nation, the Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados expresses its condolences to his wife, children and members of his immediate and extended family.” (PR)
