The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

A trade union leader yesterday said he was “amazed” that the Bahamian labour movement has not been asked to contribute more meaningfully to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) debate.

Obie Ferguson, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) president, told Tribune Business: “We were the first organisation to have a major seminar on WTO; I think in 2003. For some reason, during these discussions we have not been invited as a meaningful contributor.

“The record will show that in 2003 the Commonwealth of The Bahamas Trade Union Congress put on a massive seminar. For some reason they have chosen not to consult with the Trade Union Congress (TUC). I just find it very amazing.”

Mr Ferguson said “the people must be prepared” if The Bahamas is to become a full WTO member, and said: “I think that we have to make sure that our people are ready for what will come as a result of WTO.

“We just can’t say that we are going to enter into WTO. We have to prepare. That’s one of the problems that I have. Are we preparing our people for this? This is a major decision that will have tremendous ramifications for this country and the people.”

Around eight countries have expressed an interest in The Bahamas’ initial goods and services offers to the WTO, according to the country’s lead negotiator, Zhivargo Laing. The Minnis administration is working toward becoming a full WTO member by mid-2020, but Mr Laing has previously said accession is not a done deal.