Nelerene Harding

Nelerene Harding, the long-time president of the Airport, Airline and Allied Workers Union, died yesterday. She was 52. Reaction to her death came in from Minister of Labour Shane Gibson, who called Harding a role model for young and aspiring trade unionists.

"She was skilled, knowledgeable and unwavering in her pursuit of rights for the workers she served selflessly," Gibson said yesterday in a statement.

Harding served in numerous capacities during her more than 30 years of service, he said.

This included an executive position in the National Congress of Trade Unions of The Bahamas (NCTUB), third vice-president of the NCTUB and past member of the Board of Directors of the National Workers Cooperative Credit Union. She was also master trustee of the International Benefits Association, where she dealt with employee benefits and pensions, according to Gibson.

Harding represented non-managerial workers at Bahamasair and Nassau Flight Services.

"Her latest feat was to conclude and sign an Industrial Agreement for the non-management employees of Bahamasair," Gibson said.

John Pinder, president of the Bahamas Public Service Union said yesterday, "Harding was a hard worker, who always demonstrated a high level of professionalism."

Pinder said it was a sad moment for the trade movement. He credited Harding for her ability to always negotiate a good deal for her members.

Pinder said: "The trade unionist movement will miss Harding."

"I will always have fond memories of her."

Gibson offered condolences on behalf of the government and people of The Bahamas.

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