Two sides cemented in their stance

Trinidad cement suppliers running out of stock as strike action continues.

PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad, Friday March 2, 2012 – Hardware stores are feeling the pinch of a cement shortage as the impasse between Trinidad Cement Limited (TCL) and the Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union continues.

And, some are calling on government to intervene and break up the TCL’s monopoly in the country to ensure there is a regular supply of cement for the twin island state, as some ran out of supplies as early as Monday.

One hardware store owner lamented that they were losing thousands of dollars because everything had come to a standstill as a result of the crisis. He explained that everything from constructing foundations to putting up or making blocks had stalled as a result of the impasse.

However, the strike action is expected to go on for 90 days as the union seeks a 16 per cent wage increase compared with TCL’s offer of 6.5 per cent over a three year period.

The union is unwilling to settle for anything below double digit figures. They are also negotiating for improved packages for casual workers. Click here to receive free news bulletins via email from Caribbean360. (View sample)