20 January 2005

Trade Unions Mourn Loss of Bill Andersen

The death of long-serving trade unionist Bill Andersen is a huge loss to the union movement, Council of Trade Unions secretary Carol Beaumont said today.

Bill Andersen, who at 81 was still serving as president of the National Distribution Union, died yesterday in Auckland following a heart attack.

“Unionists around the country feel great sadness at Bill’s death,” Carol Beaumont said. “He was at times a controversial figure but widely respected for his unfailing support and commitment to working people and the union movement.”

Bill Andersen was involved in the 1951 waterfront dispute and was secretary of the Northern Drivers Union for almost 30 years. He was active in the former Federation of Labour and the Council of Trade Unions until his death.

“Most people saw him as a fighter but he was also incredibly kind and had a great sense of humour,” Carol Beaumont said. “We will miss him greatly.”

ENDS

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