“There Was No Grief Support, They Treat Us Like the Garbage We Pick Up”

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS – Just before 11 a.m. on June 16, 55-year-old John Altidor was killed on the job.

The Beaches and Parks Authority worker was fatally struck by a black Honda Civic while attempting to cross John F. Kennedy Drive.

Altidor was a member of the Ministry of Works’ Grounds and Beautification Unit.

Today, his grieving co-workers protested outside the ministry over several issues, including transfers, pensions and promotions.

They’re also upset by what they say has been the ministry’s response to their co-worker’s tragic death.

Former manager Stephen Douglas says despite the outpouring of grief, they feel nothing was done to remember their fallen co-worker.

Stephen Douglas – Worker, Ministry Of Works And Family Island Affairs

“To date, no kind of staff has been present. They watched their brother get killed. No grief counseling, not even a word of encouragement to continue doing the work. The personal protective equipment that we need, we still haven’t gotten it. I don’t know how long they intend for this to go on, but if these were their kids, would they want their kids to be treated this way?”

The group also took issue with the fact that the majority of them have not been regularized, claiming Altidor fell into that same category.

Edmund Holmes – Worker, Ministry Of Works And Family Island Affairs

“The gentleman on this shirt right here died in the line of duty. If the government had regularized him and done what they were supposed to do when it was supposed to be done, his family wouldn’t have been all over the place, and all of us wouldn’t be mourning the loss of one of our co-workers.”

Works Minister Clay Sweeting eventually came downstairs to address their concerns.

The protesting workers pointed out to Sweeting that they felt there was a lack of empathy.

Clay Sweeting – Minister, Works And Family Island Affairs

“What I can say is the Ministry of Works, for the most part, honors people who pass away. We have ceremonies in the back all the time. Mr. Douglas, you can attest to that.”

Kimsley Ferguson – President, Bahamas Public Services Union

“We’re saying all it takes is to jump in the elevator and say, ‘Guys, we understand that Altidor lost his life tragically. We’re here for you.’ That’s all.”

Clay Sweeting – Minister, Works And Family Island Affairs

“I understand what you’re saying.”