The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) joins in mourning the passing of Father Malcolm Rodrigues who passed away a few days ago. The Federation remembers Father Rodrigues for his outstanding contributions to the struggles of the working-class in Guyana.
For the FITUG, in particular, we remember the prominent role he played in 1979 in the four-union movement which comprised the University of Guyana Staff Association, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE), and the Clerical of Commercial Workers Union (CCWU). The movement later blossomed into the FITUG was fertilized by the contributions of this outstanding stalwart, among others.
Father Rodrigues solidarity and support is also recalled during the 1977 sugar workers strike against the onerous Sugar Levy. He was among those who at the Trade Union Congress (TUC) stood with the sugar workers as he called for the Levy to be removed. His forthright stance earned him the respect of many workers and trade unionists alike. Additionally, during strikes in 1979 in protesting the cost-of-living, Father Rodrigues stood together with the many workers who were sent home in exercising their freedom of association and right to strike.
His efforts in advancing the country’s return to democracy in 1992 is also recalled at this time. Father Rodrigues was one of the several outstanding unionists who advanced and advocated the return to democratic norms following several rigged elections. His role again was monumental, and his efforts did not go in vain.
Indeed, as FITUG reflects on the contributions of the late Father Rodrigues we recognize the role he played in not only protecting the workers of Guyana and earning their respect but ensuring that Guyana remained a free and democratic nation. His contributions will be forever remembered and at this time the FITUG wishes him eternal peace and rest.
