Nationwide broadcast delivered by Dr. the Right Honourable, Eric Williams, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago on 3rd May, 1970
| Title: | Nationwide broadcast delivered by Dr. the Right Honourable, Eric Williams, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago on 3rd May, 1970 |
|---|---|
| Author | Williams, Eric Eustace, |
| Abstract: | The second question concerns the Black Power movement in its constructive aspect. Let me make no bones about it: I identify myself fully with its constructive aspect. I shall give you some examples. I did all I could to encourage the dock workers to take shares in the Port Landing Company. I have assured the Seamen and Waterfront Workers Union of the fullest support from the Ministry of Finance in respect of implementing the Union’s decision to set up a Workers’ Bank. I rejoiced when I learned that a trade union had been awarded the contract to operate a concession at Piarco Airport. I am now working on positive proposals from two Diego Martin steel bands to set up an agricultural co-operative. I have actively encouraged the steelband movement to form a co-operative to establish and run a factory for the manufacture of steelbands. One of the Black Power groups in my constituency, Port-of-Spain South, has approached me for assistance in establishing a co-operative grocery. I have placed all the resources of the Ministry of Labour and the Industrial Development Corporation at the group’s disposal, and at the request of the group I, as their representative in Parliament, have agreed to purchase the first shares in the co-operative up to the maximum permitted. The Cabinet has already approved additional funds for assistance to co-operatives and small business. This emphasis on Black economic power will be intensified, especially in relation to the tourist industry in Tobago. I wish you all to understand that the claims of Black people to social justice, economic dignity and a fuller life will be unequivocally supported and positively encouraged by my Government. |
| Media Type : | Publication |
| Collection Series: |
Dr. Eric E. Williams Speeches |
| Holding Location: | Ministry of Planning and Development, Library Services Division. |
| Publication Date: | 1970 |
| Place of Publication: | Republic of Trinidad and Tobago |
| Page Count: | 5 pages |
| VIEW COLLECTION : |  |
