Desmond McKenzie Pays Tribute to Former BITU Island Supervisor Wycliffe Matthews

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Local Government and Community Development Minister Desmond McKenzie has paid tribute to Wycliffe Matthews, the former Island Supervisor of the Bustamame Industrial Trade Union (BITU), who died on Friday after being ill. He was 90.

In a statement, McKenzie said he was deeply sorry to hear of Matthews’ death and offered condolences, including those of the local government community, to Matthews’ relatives, friends and former co-workers.

The minister described Matthews as a Jamaican labour advocate whose public life was centred on service and representation. McKenzie said Matthews worked firmly for employees across the country and focused on securing strong results for the people whose interests he advanced.

McKenzie also highlighted Matthews’ role as a capable chief negotiator, particularly in agriculture, saying he had made a meaningful contribution in pressing the concerns of farmers. He said Matthews believed strongly in standing up for people and carried out that work with energy, dedication and conviction.

According to McKenzie, Matthews’ efforts were rooted in improving the circumstances of those he served. The minister said the wider local government sector had benefited from Matthews’ contribution, and he gave thanks for Matthews’ life and service to Jamaica.

Matthews had substantial experience as a chief negotiator in the agricultural sector. He also represented the May Pen and Sandy Bay divisions in Clarendon as a councillor and served as mayor.