He president-elect from Uruguay, Yamandu Orsicarried out a meeting this Tuesday with Richard Readformer union leader of the Federation of Beverage Workers and Employees (FOEB). During this meeting, both discussed the future stake of Read in the new government that will begin its administration on March 1, 2025. The conversations revolved around the “role” that the former union member will play in the cabinet.
Sources close to the future government confirmed to El País that Orsi is interested in incorporating the vast experience of Read on topics related to labor relations. The president-elect highlighted the importance of his collaboration: “He is a person of permanent consultation.” However, Orsi also specified that it was not a discussion about a specific position for Read in the next administration, underscoring the former leader’s value in conversations about labor issues.
Orsi had the opportunity to talk about his close relationship with Read, highlighting his constant presence in the union sphere. “We couldn’t not talk to him about these issues,” Orsi emphasized. In a positive tone, he added that he would like the former leader to join his government team, although he also admitted that he was not sure to what extent Read would have interest to actively participate in politics.
Read’s union experience and uncertain future
After the meeting, Read spoke cautiously about his future role in the Orsi administration. When leaving the hotel Hampton by Hilton in Carrasco, where the transition office of Orsi, the former leader limited himself to mentioning that his future role would be that of a “lifelong militant.” This statement leaves open interpretation as to what contributions it could make in terms of advice without assuming a official position.
Previous rumors had circulated about the possibility of Read taking over. address of the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. However, Read firmly rejected such a possibility, stating that he has no interest in hold political office in the future. This distancing from specific roles translates into a more consultative than administrative approach, despite its historical influence in the field. labor.
Some publications had also linked Read’s name to the current one. general secretary of the Communist Party of Uruguay (PCU), Juan Castillo, which led to discussions within local politics. Orsi laughed off these assumptions, reaffirming that, while the relationship with Read is strong, the appointment in a specific position It was not on the agenda.
Reflections on the future of work in Uruguay
To be part of the future governmentRead could play a key role in the connection between the union movement and the administration. At a recent event organized at the Brewers Clubthe former leader reflected on several topics relevant to the labor economics of the country, including the impact of the artificial intelligence in employment and labor relations in a hypothetical government of Broad Front (FA).
During his speech, Read highlighted that “absolute truths” do not exist in the workplace and was optimistic about his perspective about the future of the country. He also emphasized the need for a “militant, enthusiastic and optimistic contribution” so that the new management can be seen as the best of the FA administrations since 2005. The goal is to reach 2029 in a stronger position across the board labor.
