The Tribune

LABOUR Minister Dion Foulkes has expressed sadness over the death of trade unionist Alexander Thompson.

Mr Thompson died last week after a long illness.

"Mr Thompson was a trade unionist of great distinction, having served in numerous capacities as an executive officer of the Bahamas Hotel Catering and Allied Workers Union including trustee, treasurer and vice president," a statement from Senator Foulkes said.

"After entering the tourism sector in 1954 as a bellboy at the Lighthouse Beach Hotel in Fresh Creek, Andros, Mr Thompson always conducted himself as a professional and took pride in serving his guests.

"He is credited as the longest serving vice president of the Bahamas Hotel Catering and Allied Workers Union (BHCAWU) and was extensively trained in industrial relations, contract negotiations and dispute resolution."

Senator Foulkes said Mr Thompson was a "personal friend" who "fought tirelessly" for Bahamian workers.

"I wish to extend, on behalf of my wife Emma, and the entire management and staff of the Ministry of Labour my sincere condolences to the family of the late Alexander Thompson and the executives of BHCAWU and the executives of the Trade Union Congress (TUC).

"Our country has lost a great fighter for workers' rights and a true nation builder," Senator Foulkes said.

Mr Thompson retired in 2002, however he was often called upon for advice on labour matters.