Union apologises to Paragon for fake news

The Namibia Transport and Allied Union (Natau) has apologised to Paragon Investment Holdings for a statement it made two weeks ago.

The union issued an apology on Tuesday, saying its previous statement was factually incorrect and misleading. It was titled ‘The Ideological Opposition to Collective Bargaining Rights by Paragon’.

“With the benefit of hindsight and upon further reflection, Natau realises that the statement has the potential to cause reputational damage to Paragon Investment Holdings and its management,” Natau says.

The union yesterday said the press release suggested that Paragon is a non-law abiding organisation that violates labour laws and employee rights.

Paragon owner Desmond Amunyela says the company accepts the union’s apology and hopes to develop a mutually constructive relationship.

“Paragon has been in the business for 20 years and we have never been accused of employee rights violations, so we were shocked. The most invaluable segment of the business, to us, is our staff. Although unions are welcome to be a part of us, they should come and add value,” Amunyela says.

Natau is not yet the recognised union for Paragon’s employees, but Amunyela says he is looking forward to a good relationship with the union going forward.

Natau withdrew its statement in its entirety, following mediation facilitated by another union, the National Union of Namibian Workers (NUNW).

“[Our role is to] keep the environment of labour relations in order. There were misunderstandings on a few things that led to [things] I didn’t like as well. We need to apologise for our wrongs and create a peaceful environment,” NUNW secretary general Job Muniaro says.

The post Union apologises to Paragon for fake news appeared first on The Namibian.