Chavez made a huge difference to the lives of ordinary Venezuelans, says TUC

date: 6 March 2013

embargo: For immediate release

Commenting on the death of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, TUC General Secretary Frances O'Grady said:

'It is with great sadness that we learn that Hugo Chavez has lost his battle with cancer. I was proud to have met him both in Venezuela and when he visited the TUC during his visit to London in 2006.

'During his 14 years as President Hugo Chavez oversaw the implementation of an impressive and highly progressive programme, lifting millions out of poverty and providing citizens with healthcare and education services at a level unknown in Venezuelan history.

'The new labour law passed last May, after popular consultations across the country, marked a huge step forward in workers' rights in the country - measures that we are sure Vice President Nicolas Maduro (himself a trade unionist with a long background in the struggle for rights and equality) and the rest of the government will continue to take forward.

'It is vital at this time that the people of Venezuela are given time to mourn their loss and to decide on their future leadership in line with the constitution and without outside interference.'

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Contacts:

Media enquiries:
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Alex Rossiter T: 020 7467 1337 M: 07887 572130 E: arossiter@tuc.org.uk