Committed trade unionist and former Progressive Labour Party MP Eugene Blakeney has died at the age of 82.

Mr Blakeney dedicated much of his life to the trade union movement serving 14 years as the Bermuda Industrial Union’s general secretary.

Between 1979 and 1997 he served as the Bermuda Public Services Association’s (BPSA) first full-time general secretary.

Last night the Bermuda Public Services Union (BPSU) — the successor to the BPSA — hailed Mr Blakeney as an “icon” of the Island’s trade union movement.

“Brother Blakeney’s guidance, temperament, global vision and understanding of people were critical to both the development of the BPSU and, to a wider degree the stability of management-worker relationship in Bermuda,” said a statement released by the BPSU last night.

“Brother Blakeney’s involvement spanned the 1960s through to the 1990s, a period deemed to be some of the most tumultuous ties in Bermuda’s trade union movement.

“It was at the BPSU that he excelled; he took a group of labour neophytes and provided them with mentorship, leadership and global perspective on progressive unionism.

“It was because of Brother Blakeney’s vision that the BPSU evolved to become one of the leading trade unions not only in Bermuda but also throughout the Caribbean trade union movement.”

Mr Blakeney began as a shop steward with the Bermuda Government bus garage and in 1958, while working as a bus driver, he brought bus drivers into the BIU. It was the beginning of a union career that lasted more than four decades.

Mr Blakeney was also a Progressive Labour Party MP and senator as well as the chairman of the Visitor Industry Partnership from 1998 to 2004.

In 2008, he was honoured with an award marking International Workers’ Day at City Hall.

A statement released by the PLP described Mr Blakeney as a giant of the labour movement.

The statement added: “A former Progressive Labour Party MP for Hamilton West, Mr Blakeney is the brother of PLP MP Glenn Blakeney and served for over 20 years on the executive of the Bermuda Industrial Union.

“Bermuda owes a tremendous debt to Mr Blakeney for his contribution towards building a fairer, more inclusive, more just Bermuda.

“We mourn his passing, celebrate his life and extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.”

Last night Michael Dunkley also praised Mr Blakeney’s contribution to the Island.

“Mr Blakeney is recognised as a pioneer of the modern union movement in Bermuda,” the Premier said. “He was a consummate gentleman, who brought a sharp mind and unending commitment to the development of trade unionism generally and of the BPSU and its forerunner the BPSA, in particular.

“In his role of general secretary he served the public service admirably and the strength of the BPSU today is a testament to his legacy.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Bermuda and as the minister responsible for the public service, I extend to his family and friends heartfelt condolences and salute his tremendous and exemplary life’s work.”

Mr Blakeney was also awarded the MBE for his contribution to Bermudian society.

Asked recently what he would like to be remembered for, he said: “A fighter for the workers.”