The Gleaner Company's pensioners who were honoured by the newspaper at a special luncheon yesterday at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel, New Kingston. Oliver Clarke, the newspaper's chairman and managing director, told the pensioners that they were special, having provided the company with invaluable years of service. - Ian Allen/Staff Photographer

Retired trade unionist Bromley Armstrong, OD, has implored pensioners to share their knowledge and experience with the youth, as this was critical to human development.

Armstrong was addressing Gleaner Company pensioners yesterday at their annual luncheon at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel, New Kingston. He reminisced about his years as a fighter for the rights of coloured people in Canada.

Having fought and endured various racial battles and discrimination, Armstrong spoke with pride of his successful efforts in the labour movement in North America.

"I have had my life threatened several times, received correspondence from all over the world and been called all sorts of names, had my office smashed and received dynamite in the mail; but I remained true to the cause," he said.

Moved to tears

The 82-year-old Jamaican stalwart, holder of the Order of Canada, became emotional as he described his trials and triumphs over time.

"Every individual should be treated equally," said Armstrong, as a tear trickled down his cheek.

Twenty-three of the Gleaner Company's 46 pensioners listened intently and burst into wild applause as Armstrong's presentation came to a close.

The former Gleaner workers turned out in their finery to catch up on old times with their colleagues and learn of the changes that are taking place at the North Street-based headquarters.

"Our only regret," said Oliver Clarke, chairman and managing director of The Gleaner, "is that we don't have more of our pensioners here with us. And I am hoping that next year we can have a full turnout."

Gleaner board members Professor Gerald Lalor and Christopher Roberts took part in the appreciation ceremony. Armstrong was accompanied by his wife, Marlene.

Other invited guests included Anthony O'Gilvie, personnel and industrial relations manager at the Gleaner Company, who introduced the guest speaker, and Mary Dick, the company's training manager, who chaired yesterday's function. Also present were the newspaper's outstanding performers for 2007.

To round off the occasion, Dwight Richards, on trumpet, and Chris McDonald, on keyboard, provided excellent music.