The dead they sleep, a long, long sleep;

The dead they rest, and their rest is deep;

The dead have peace, but the living weep.

Samuel Hoffenstein

I confess I had mixed feelings when I decided to pen my reaction to the abrupt departure of Godwin Abela from among us. Should I accept the loss of the gentleman in silence and leave it at that, or eulogise the colleague of some years? Well, one thing I am sure of is that if I choose the latter I would anger this unpretentious man and be forgiven immediately.

I first met Godwin a good 40 years ago when he was a delivery clerk and I had started working as a shipping clerk for the same company in the port of Valletta. Although my senior by some 10 years, the youthful vigor at that time and our mutual interest in trade union matters, soon forged a bond that was to last for a long time.

The turbulent times in the Port scenario during the 1970s and 1980s, brought about mostly by prevailing influences of new shipping practices, saw him in the forefront as a union leader. During the ensuing discussions for reforms that were, to say the least, pressing, his acumen contributed in no small way in the formulation of equitable solutions. Although some of these were considered by some as harsh, the passage of time has proved that they were necessary for the improvement of conditions, both for port workers and the Port in general.

I thank you as a friend and leader.

To his family my most sincere condolences and regard.

Joseph G. Piccinino