LABOR DAY – Mobilization: Unions in battle order for May 1

The main union groups have already decided on their program of activities in view of the celebration of Labor Day, on May 1st. The Confederation of Public and Private Sector Unions (CTSP) is therefore opting for a dynamic gathering by organizing a rally in the streets of Rose Hill. The kick-off will be given on May 1, at 9:30 a.m., in front of the CTSP headquarters, to rally the workers' monument, located near the local post office. As a prelude to this mobilization, the confederation is currently broadcasting a video message calling on the workers to take to the streets. She deplores what she describes as “increasing passivity” within the working class, which is now limited to reactions on social networks. “Corruption, drugs and nepotism are taking their toll. The high cost of living weighs heavily on the population. During this time, some political decision-makers invite us to eat potatoes, others recommend reducing electricity consumption or even limiting the use of cars, even though they were elected to restore the country. If you don't take to the streets to make your voice heard, your rights will be taken away,” says Shayn Sinnassamy, leading figure of the CTSP. For its part, the National Trade Union Confederation (NTUC) favors a more sober commemoration. “This year, we have chosen to do just one wreath-laying,” explained its president, Narendranath Gopee. A ceremony is planned at the grave of the late trade unionist Auguste Follet, before a gathering in Coromandel where themes linked to the well-being of workers, inflation and the rising cost of living will be discussed. Unlike previous years, the NTUC will not pay tribute to the great historical figures of the trade union movement. Narendranath Gopee underlined the importance of this tribute. “Auguste Follet devoted more than 50 years to trade unionism. He fiercely defended workers in the sugar sector alongside the late Devanand Ramjuttun. His exemplary journey remains a source of inspiration. Not recognizing his fight would be an injustice, even an insult to his memory,” he said. For the president of the Mauritius Labor Congress (MLC), Labor Day must be an opportunity to pay tribute not only to active workers, but also to retirees who have contributed significantly to the socio-economic development of the country. He also placed emphasis on "recognition of the invisible work of housewives", as well as on the contribution of employees mobilized on the very day of May 1, particularly in essential services. With this in mind, the MLC sent, on March 23, a correspondence to the Minister of Labor, Reza Uteem, in order to propose the creation of a “Pl