PSA Trinidad & Tobago

Psi Sub-regional Secretary for the Caribbean PSAI on the occasion of the occasion of the 70th anniversary of PSA

It is with pleasure that I greet you on this important milestone. In  traditional and modern customs, this anniversary is celebrated with diamonds and platinum. Over the 70 years of its existence, the PSA has truly given service worthy of the accolades from those at home at abroad.

Today, it is hard to imagine the Trinidad & Tobago society without the PSA. You have made an indelible mark on the landscape of the country. Over the years you have also contributed greatly to the development of public sector trade unionism in the Caribbean.

As you remember the various struggles with which you were engaged, you will no doubt be able to detail the numerous achievements – the purchase of your headquarters on Abercrombie Street, negotiating your first Collective, negotiating a group health plan, opening sub-offices across the country, starying a housing project for workers and their families. These achievements highlight the important role played by the union – not only in raising the standards of living for its members, but also improving the lives of all citizens of the state.

PSI promotes quality public services. Services that respect and reward workers; providing them with full workers’ rights, fair pay, pay equity, security and decent working conditions with appropriately trained workers. These quality public services contribute to the achievement of the MDGs and social and economic justice. PSI believes that quality public services are essential for building fair and inclusive societies and a peaceful and secure environment.

As public service sector unions, there is a direct link between what we do and the well-being of society – we have a particular responsibility and duty to do the best we can for our citizens – to build a social cohesion. PSA’s work over the years shows that you share these values.

On behalf of the General Secretary, Peter Waldorff; President, Ylva Thorn; and Regional Secretary, Jocelio Drummond, I extend greetings to the President, General Council, Executive, Staff and Members on your platinum service to the people of Trinidad & Tobago. PSI looks forward to continuing to work with you in achieving our mutual goals of achieving democracy, transparency, social equality and eradicating
poverty.

Long live the PSA!

In solidarity

Sandra Massiah
PSI Sub-regional Secretary for the Caribbea