against human rights violations involving trade unionists in other parts of the world.

The BIU is supporting Amnesty International Bermuda's campaign focussing on the ill-treatment of unionists and labour activists, which started on Sunday and runs until the end of June.

BIU President Mr. Ottiwell Simmons agreed to make petition letters available for members to sign at the union's office in Hamilton.

It is hoped that the collection of signatures will send "clear messages'' to governments of Haiti, China and Indonesia that human rights violations are a cause of great concern for trade unionists.

Amnesty International Bermuda is highlighting three cases in this year's campaign.

A spokesperson listed them: "Marsinah, a 25-year-old labour activist in Indonesia was abducted, tortured, raped and killed after participating in a strike at the watch factory where she worked. There is clear evidence that her murder was planned and carried out with the knowledge of at least one military official.

"Cajuste Lexius, a trade unionist in Haiti, suffered severe beatings resulting in kidney failure while in police custody, after being arrested for supporting a call for a general strike.

"Liu Jingsheng, a labour activist in China, was detained in 1992 after being accused of `counter revolutionary' activities, including plans to form an independent trade union. He is still being detained while awaiting trial, with no access to his family.'' The public are also being invited to get involved by signing letters petitioning the appropriate government officials in these countries.

The petitioning letter will be available at the campaign table in the Walkway, between Reid Street and Front Street, every Friday lunchtime, during this month and June.