Central Bank Governor warns of impact of national strike on economy

Port-of-Spain: The Governor of the Central Bank has warned that any national strike would be detrimental to this country's economy at this time.

Governor Ewart Williams made the comments as he delivered a report on the economy, saying government will not be able to withstand the shutdown given the level of deficit being faced by the country due to turbulent global markets.

Governor Williams says the hightened levels of industrial unrest will affect the economy. Some 18 trade unions are demanding that the government increase salary offers beyond five percent offered to various state agencies.

The governor says the level of productivity in the country needs to be put in place, to develop the economic backbone of this country and to create growth. He noted however that the government needs to deal with the public debt situtation and said it must be closely monitored.