Trade Union Activity Under Scrutiny as Government Steps In Amid Shortages, Says Union Representative

Port of Spain, August 14 2026 – In a candid interview on I-95.5 FM’s “The 95 Mandate Special Series,” the host engaged union representative Mr. Brown in a discussion about the current state of labour activism, recent government interventions, and the impact of ongoing shortages on workers.

Mr. Brown confirmed that job losses are rising and that trade unions have grown largely silent. He highlighted that, under the state of emergency, unions are effectively barred from “pitching a tent” to protest worker rights, noting that WASA (the Water Authority) would be prevented from organising such demonstrations. The host asked whether unions could still organise protests; Mr. Brown responded that government restrictions make it difficult for unions to demonstrate, citing police presence at past Labour Day celebrations where “police surrounded a small group of protestors.”

The conversation shifted to resource shortages, beginning with a chicken shortage that has driven up prices and prompted concerns over food security. Mr. Brown referenced a recent announcement by Agriculture Minister Ravi Rathiram, who said the government will establish a state-run hatchery to ensure a reliable supply of quality chicks for local producers. While the initiative aims to alleviate the shortage, Mr. Brown questioned whether the government is over-reaching by stepping into areas traditionally left to the private sector, comparing it to hypothetical scenarios such as a government-run agency for blood or semen supplies.

Further, Mr. Brown recounted the history of union “tent-pitching” protests, describing past gatherings where workers camped out, shared rum, music, and stories, and warned that current restrictions could suppress this form of collective action. He also warned of the risks when dissent is perceived as a threat to the state, recalling a past incident involving a figure named Brent Thomas, which underscored the delicate balance between protest and perceived security threats.

Closing the interview, Mr. Brown urged listeners to remain vigilant about the erosion of workers’ rights and to hold the government accountable for both its response to shortages and its handling of civil liberties under the emergency powers. The host thanked Mr. Brown for his insights and reminded the audience of the ongoing series on the state of the economy, encouraging further discussion on labour issues.

Key points from the interview

• Job losses are increasing; unions appear largely inactive.
• State-of-emergency rules limit union protest tactics, such as tent-pitching.
• Government plans a government-run hatchery to address the chicken shortage, announced by Minister Ravi Rathiram.
• Concerns raised about government overreach into market domains.
• Historical union protests involved “tent-pitching,” music, and community solidarity.
• Risks of being labeled a threat to the state highlighted by past incidents (e.g., Brent Thomas).

The interview underscores the tension between labour groups and a government that is increasingly involved in managing economic shortfalls while imposing emergency restrictions on traditional forms of protest.