Trade unions fast in protest

Laventille: Hudnreds of trade union members have started fasting in protest of the government's reluctance to agree to salary increases above five percent.

Dressed in white, the  trade union leaders gathered for a second day at the Transport and Industrial Workers Union headquarters in Laventille.

President General of the Oilfields Workers Trade Union Ancil Roget says they have been praying and reflecting on the situation in the country and continue to hold fast to their belief that the State of Emergency and curfew were implemented to block their mobilisation drive.

He says, however, that they will proceed with their campaigns. Roget describes day one of the fast as enlightening for the labour leaders. He has dispelled claims that the trade union leaders had moved away from the bargaining table.