National Transformation Alliance Media Release;
7th, December, 2024
The National Transformation Alliance (NTA) stands in unwavering solidarity with the many persons represented by the trade union movement. Today, we were honoured to accept the invitation to join the solidarity protest at the Queen’s Park Savannah.
This protest was not just about the unacceptable Salaries Review Commission (SRC) report or the insulting 4% wage increase offered to public servants, which was made even worse by the fact that the Government has effectively given themselves a close to 50% increase in salaries. It was a culmination of years of frustration, born out of mismanagement, poor governance, lack of leadership, biased decision-making, and the persistent disrespect shown to trade unions and the people they represent.
For far too long, citizens have borne the brunt of poor policies and neglect, enduring unnecessary suffering. The NTA stands side by side with the trade union movement, and all others gathered outside the Prime Minister’s office today, because we share the same mission: to represent and advocate for those who need a voice.
However, we must acknowledge the fear that grips so many in the public and private sectors. The fear of victimisation, fear of losing their jobs or contracts, fear of speaking out in a so-called democracy. When citizens are too afraid to voice their concerns, we are no longer a democracy; we are living under a dictatorship.
The NTA firmly believes that the only way to confront this entrenched system of inequity is through unity among political parties, trade unions, NGOs, and all organisations who we joined today, all of whom did so to show how opposed we are to dictatorial governance. The most important lesson coming out from today is that we cannot expect to unite a country while political parties themselves remain divided. The maturity to collaborate across lines is essential for progress.
We also insist that in the next government, the trade union movement must not be treated as a token or cosmetic feature to lure voters. Union representatives must have a substantial and permanent role in the governance of Trinidad and Tobago, ensuring that the concerns of workers are never again sidelined. This structural change is necessary to prevent the exploitation of unions and to ensure that the voices of the people they represent are always heard and respected.
The NTA remains committed to the cause of fairness, equity, and true representation for all. And as Alliance and Transformation are the very foundations on which our party is built, together with those aligned to the same principles, we will continue to fight for the betterment of our nation.
Gary Griffith
NTA Political Leader
Email : ntaistheway@gmail.com
WhatsApp : 482-GARY(4279) / 483-GARY(4279)
