Communication Workers Union Secretary General Discusses Union Independence and Negotiations with TSTT

Union Independence and Political Neutrality\n\nThe morning rumble on Freedom 106.5 FM welcomed Secretary General of the Communication Workers Union, Joanne Ogier, to the studio. Ogier affirmed that the union’s primary duty is to its members, emphasizing that the organisation “cares about you, the workers.” She argued that a union can either make or break an organisation and urged that unions remain independent of political parties. Ogier said the CWU has consistently positioned itself as a “fence-sitter,” refusing alignment with either the PNM or the UNC, and insists on calling any government to account regardless of which party is in power. She recounted past criticism of the PNM government and reiterated that the union’s stance is against oppression and injustice for workers, not against any particular party.\n\nHistorical Leadership and Milestones\n\nOgier outlined the union’s leadership chronology: Joseph Remy served as Secretary-General from 2014-2017, followed by Clyde Elder (2017-2023), who later became Minister of Public Utilities. She noted that under the stewardship of Lyle Townsend, the union adopted a more robust, “no-nonsense” approach, though she acknowledged that the militancy of that era has softened with advancing technology.\n\nLegal Framework for Protest\n\nReferring to Section 3 of the Trade Dispute and Protection of Property Act, Ogier explained that CWU members have the legal right to peaceful protest at homes, workplaces, and other locations. She stressed that protests must remain non-violent and framed within the law, distinguishing legitimate protest from intimidation tactics such as obscene language.\n\nDefining “Sell-out” and Recent Wage Dispute\n\nOgier addressed accusations that union leaders could be labeled “sell-outs” when negotiating with employers. She cited a current wage dispute involving the Organisation of the United Telecommunication Workers (OWTU) and the chairman of the union at UTT, clarifying that the union’s focus remains on securing fair wages for rank-and-file members, not on executive bonuses.\n\nNegotiations with TSTT (2020-2025)\n\nThe interview turned to detailed negotiations with Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT). Ogier explained that the union held a mass membership meeting to discuss the bargaining agenda for the periods 2020-2022 and 2023-2025. Union leaders sought a modest percentage increase that would preserve job security while ensuring the company’s viability.\n\nShe revealed that TSTT reported a profit of $217 million. Initial union demands suggested a contribution of $90 million toward worker benefits, but after deliberation the parties settled on $80 million, representing roughly a 10 % contribution. Ogier emphasized that the union prioritised sustainable employment over large salary hikes, arguing that job security is paramount for members.\n\nGovernment Involvement and Ongoing Dialogue\n\nDuring the discussion, Minister Padarati’s call for “reasonableness” was mentioned. Ogier responded that the union’s offers were already balanced to protect both workers and the company’s long-term health. She reiterated that any agreement must reflect the realities of the company’s financial capacity while safeguarding workers’ rights.\n\nConclusion\n\nJoanne Ogier concluded by reaffirming the CWU’s commitment to independent advocacy, peaceful protest, and pragmatic negotiations that protect employment and promote fair remuneration. Her remarks highlighted the union’s historical resilience, its legal grounding for activism, and its strategic approach to negotiations with major employers such as TSTT.