The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

COREY Cartwright, president of the Grand Bahama Port Authority Workers Union, expressed concern about an industrial accident involving a contract worker at the Grand Bahama Shipyard.

Although the victim, Graham Pinder, 23, is not a member of the GBPAWU, Mr. Cartwright said the incident was unfortunate and highlighted issues concerning safety and proper insurance coverage for all workers in the industrial sector.

“We are sorry that happened and extend our sincere well wishes to him in this incident, but it is an incident that will continue to happen if not addressed,” said Mr Cartwright.

He said the shipyard must prioritise the training of both contracted and permanent workers instead of only focusing on cost-saving.

Mr Pinder, a contract worker, was cleaning a tanker when he fell some 60ft to the ground. He suffered a fractured skull and multiple injuries. He is hospitalised in New Providence.

Mr Cartwright indicated that most of the issues and incidents that have been occurring involve contract workers, not permanent workers at the shipyard.

Union leaders have expressed concern about casual employment because they believe it is a form of union busting. Contract workers do not receive the same benefits as permanent workers, such as vacation leave and medical insurance.

The GBPAWU does not support casual employment at the shipyard.

“I believe casual workers should not be casual workers; they need to ensure anybody within the industrial workforce has proper insurance coverage and is knowledgeable about their work environment and aware of the dangers that go along with it,” Mr Cartwright said.