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In Memory: Richard Flint
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Messages of condolence can also be sent to Richard's father:
John Flint
1513 Fisher Ave
Ottawa
K2C 3M8
Canada
or by email at: johnflint[at]rogers[dot]com
| When I first came to the ITF in 1990, Richard was my bastion. A gangly, tousled and attractive man in his early thirties, he welcomed everyone with a grin and regaled us all enthusiastically with anecdotes about the ITF’s unique history and heritage. We were living in Thatcher’s Britain: it was Richard who persuaded me early on not to apply for NGO jobs, with his infectious conviction he persuaded me that international trade union work was absolutely the right way to work for a better future. He encouraged me as a member of the ITF Actions Unit to write articles for ITF News and the Seafarers’ Bulletin – which helped when I later applied to move into the ITF’s Research and Publications Department. He taught me too about computers, email and the Internet (always in a cloud of cigarette smoke). Richard was also the ITF staff’s bastion. The original author of our collective agreement and chair of our T&G union branch, Richard sallied forth against the General Secretary of the day, Harold Lewis, with righteous flair, originality and stubbornness. I doubt Harold’s got over it, even now. Richard was the maker of the ITF’s history, locating historians, managing the publication of their efforts and advocating the importance of Edo Fimmen, the ITF’s inter-war General Secretary as the true architect of the modern ITF. Our centenary celebrations in 1996 were testament to Richard’s determination that the ITF’s active anti-Nazism in the 1930s and its ground-breaking internationalism in the 1940s would not be forgotten. When Richard told us about his cruelly destructive and hereditary illness, cerebellar ataxia, it was unbearable – terrible to think that this talented man who blossomed in so many ways would deteriorate and eventually die young. To help us understand, he lent some of us the very moving autobiographical novel that his sister Helen had written about their family’s life. When Neil Kinnock’s Labour Party lost in the UK’s 1992 General Election to the Conservative’s John Major, a group of us from the ITF were with Richard in Hackney Labour Club – and we royally drowned our sorrows afterwards. For Richard loved a party. He would persuade David Cockroft to take us out to dinner. He would cook food – inexpertly but with great enthusiasm – for all of the Communications Department. He had a birthday party every year; memorable occasions we looked forward to. He would loyally turn out to other’s celebrations too. By the time of the 1997 General Election Richard’s illness was getting worse and at the end of that year he retired. It was a difficult time for him. But he was helped by an ongoing relationship with the Swedish seafarers, for whom he did some work, and he grew into his role as a campaigner for disabled rights. He drove a mean wheelchair. One of my abiding memories will be of coming back with Richard from a political meeting near Euston, pregnantly trying to keep up with him as he weaved delightedly all over the pavement. Richard was bright, beautiful and inspiring and at 47, he died too young. But he changed the ITF and touched many people internationally. Twenty-four hours after getting the news of his death, e-mail tribute have filled up our mailboxes. He would have liked that. -Sarah Finke, Information and Policy, and Women's Departments head, ITF |
| It is such a great pity that Flint has died so young ans he did not fully enjoy his life due to bad health. I vividly recall his support to us all at the centenary Congress in 1996. The many publications he enabled us to access will always remain useful to those who read them. Shouldnt we have a special moment to remember him during congress; perhaps with a few clips of his most prominent works and perhaps photos? What else can we do at the moment? May his soul rest in eternal peace. -Joe Katende - ITF Africa Regional Secretary |
| "he was one of the first people that i met at the ITF London office who helped me a lot with my work. without him, i would have never known the power of internet in its early years. When i was appointed as the Inland Transport Section Secretary in 1999, he sent me an email of congratulation. There he said "if you can see far into the distance from where you stand, don't forget that you are standing on the shoulders of your predecessors". I will always remember this. may his soul rest in peace." I remember he had his homepage. So i did a quick search and found out that it still existed. www.poptel.org.uk/rjf/ and here are his details from this site:
-Mac Urata, Secretary for Inland Transport, ITF. |
| I am so very sorry and sad to hear of Richard's death - it was a priviledge to have worked with him. Please keep me abreast of any commemorative plans -Shane Enright, Trade Union Campaigns Manager, Amnesty International UK |
| Sad news indeed. One of the guys who made me choose to work for the ITF. Regards, Kees -Kees Marges, Consultant Port Labour Relations, Adviseur Arbeidsverhoudingen |
| Rest in Peace Richard. The memories remain, the struggle goes on. -Mark Dickinson, Nautilus UK |
| I met Richard only after his retirement and had several discussions with him about our common interest in labour internationalism and computer communication. Our relationship had actually begun with an online conflict about such matters. But we managed to move beyond this. I had a lot of respect for his efforts to deal with a debilitating illness. Please pass my respects to his friends and family. -Peter Waterman |
| I had a privilege to know Richard since the beginning of 90'ies. Although I knew that his serious disease would develop to this tracigal end I feel very sad to hear his death. As David said Richard's sense of humour, dynamism, strong personality and commitment to the interest of worker of all nationalities will live on his colleagues' memories for many years to come. -Juhani Koivunen, Finnish Tranport Workers' union AKT |
| Dear David and Mac, Thank you for passing this on. Like you Richard was also one of the first people I met when I joined the ITF FoC Campaign family. Richard was extremely proud to be a Canadian, though he loved London and the UK and thus became a citizen of the world through his work at the ITF. I definitely took inspiration from his dedication to working people and their struggles and know that the world is a slightly poorer place without Richard being among us. -Peter Lahay, National Coordinator, Intl. Transport Workers Federation-Canada |
| Dear General Secretary, Thank you for passing this on. We were so shocked to hear of Richard Flint death. It is a terrible loss for us, and he will be missed very deeply. It's a great pity that he did not fully enjoy his life due to bad health. Please accept our deepest sympathy, and convey our condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace. Yours sincerely. -Ouagadougou office, ITF |
| Dear [ITF], sad to hear from you about Richard, I and my Family wish the Family of Richard all the best and sent our condolences from Florida to London, best wishes and Far well, Kind Regards Hans -Hans Saurenmann, ITF Inspector |
| [...] I heard about Richard and was of course very sad as I am sure anyone who knew him would be. I just read the tribute and it sums up much of Richard's personality and strengths. His knowledge of computers was way ahead of his time -Geoff and I always used to say he took us to the 21st century while we were still in the 20th century and he never lost his enthusiasm. He was a lovely guy. Rgds -Teresa Kennedy, retired ITF, and Geoff Ablett, ITF SSD Staff |
| (posted on 23 April 2007) |
| I am truly sorry to hear of Richards death, his courage, dignity and commitment was an inspiration ,I am sure that he will be remembered with affection and admiration by all who were privileged to have known and worked with him, Kind Regards, -John Wood, ITF |
| I knew Richard through the three years we were at Sussex Uni, . I was used to being the smartest person in the room and he pissed all over that... among other things he introduced me to the hitchhikers guide, the plastic people of the universe, kropotkin, durutti, kronstadt, vaneigem, debord and Sophie Grigson.... Richard was one of the few who connected the hedonists and the politicos, teaching each the vices of the other... -Sam |
| This is a sad news and a great loss for the ITF and the Trade Union movement world wide. Richard was such a good man and a dedicated worker. May He rest in peace-Que la terre lui soit legere. -Adote Ghandi AKWEI |
| My recollections of Richard are similar to others who have so eloquently written already. I met Richard when I was a young green as grass idealistic ITF inspector back about 1994. Richard was just starting to show the first signs of his cursed disease. Being my first trip to London and having had a peek at the drink culture I thought he had just come back from the pub. I was sorry to hear that in fact, no, it wasn't the effects of three quick pints over chips. Richard had been expecting me. He knew he was going to give a communications overview with a fellow Canadian and had all kinds of questions and opinions on Canadian politics and the present labour scene in Canada. I was thrilled to hear his views on all kinds of matters. But I was just flat out impressed with his desire to be someone whose time and efforts would count for something. Though Richard was born a Canadian, he was really and truly a citizen of the world through his communications work at the ITF and being an internet pioneer. Sarah Finke recounts his work writing and putting together the history of the ITF. Many Canadian merchant seafarers and veterans of WW II were grateful that he set the record right on the expulsion of the Canadian Seamans' Union from the house of labour globally. That was a sign of a giant, and for a little man in the chair thats what Richard Flint was. -Peter Lahay, Intl. Longshore & Warehouse Union |
| On behalf the FTPAW Cyprus I would like to express our condolences for the death of our good colleague Richard Flint who has died in the early age of 48. Please also convey our deep sympathy to his family. -Pantelis Stavrou, FTPAW Cyprus |
| To the Family of Richard Flint We have just heard of the very sad news of the demise of Richard Flint. On behalf of the General Membership and Leadership of the Associated Marine Officers' and Seamen's Union of the Philippines, I send you our deepest sympathy in your grief over the untimely death of Richard. We are sharing your sorrow and lost. I have heard of Richard's great contribution and commitment to the trade union movement and workers' rights and I know that all his hard work will be long remembered by many. To his family and dear friends, I know that your faith and courage will bring peace and comfort in the midst of this trying moment. We will remember you in our prayers. Very truly yours, -CAPT. GREGORIO S. OCA President, AMOSUP |
| We deeply regret this unbearable loss and beg you to convey our regards to his relatives and colleagues in the ITF. -In the name of executive board, Dad-Der (Marine Employees' Solidarity Association) |
| Richard was one of the persons I knew before joining ITF through Chris [Chris Pate] and both are no more. He was very helpful in building the profile of Delhi office through ITF publication's and a source of inspiration to me. All my colleagues in Delhi offer our deepest condolences to fine human being and great friend. -Mahendra Sharma, ITF Assistant Asia/Pacific Regional Secretary |
| I have just read your note regarding the untimely death of Richard Flint, and wish to convey my fraternal condolences to the ITF Secretariat and to his family. Regards, -Bala Tampoe, General Secretary, CMU. Sri Lanka |
| It saddens me to hear about Richard and please pass on my sincere condolences to his family, he was a great help in my campaign for justice for the MV.DERBYSHIRE Family's. Having said that I would also like to pass on condolences on behalf of the MV.Derbyshire Familys, he will be sadly missed. -Bill Anderson, ITF Inspector |
| Richard will always remain a vibrant young man, alert, alive, acerbic, exaggerated, highly intelligent and hard working and impatient in an honest endeavour to improve the world. He tried! He could be very funny but did he always know that? -Eva Knapp, former ITF officer |
| It finally happened. Richard is no more. What a loss. I am deeply saddened. As you know, I shared thoughts with Richard more so over his contribution towards the publication of the memorable African bulletins which greatly informed and enlightened African affiliates. His talent, brilliance and energy were fully dedicated to the good of the ITF and no doubt helped in your great initiative in revitalizing our publications department to what it is today particularly in the design and content of TI. His friendship and the passionate concerns he often expressed to me on problems and challenges facing the African continent, its transport industry and workers will forever be remembered and cherished. May his soul rest in peace Best regards -Ben Udogwu, retired ITF Africa Regional Secretary |
| Dear David, I’m so sorry to hear that Richard Flint tragically died. My thoughts are with you and with the ITF Family. Yours, -Giuseppe Caronia, General Secretary Uiltrasporti, Italy |
| Richard was a unique guy who despite his handicap delivered a first-class service. He set an example to others in the same predicament and, I think, managed to lead a near normal life in the company of friends and colleagues. Gunther Zade of the WMU was another person of the same mould who struggled through life and who successfully achieved his objectives. I admired them both. Pleas pass on my condolences to Richard's family. All the best -Ake Selander, former ITF Assistant General Secretary |
| Thank you Richard for accepting me into the ITF thirteen years ago.Thank you for making me feel part of the ITF family, in spite of me being a freelance translator working from so far away. We talked regularly, but only met once -such is the modern form of telework!- But from that occasion I will always cherish the memory of your unbounded enthusiasm for your work, and how you managed to overcome your physical impairment with dignity and a great sense of humour. Your firm belief and commitment to the international union movement was an inspiration to me and many others. Descansa en paz (Rest in peace), as we say in Spanish. -Eva López-Cabello, ITF freelance Spanish translator |
| Richard was a great friend. I shall miss him. -Julian Samuel, Independent film-maker, Montreal |
| Hi David, Just a personal note of condolence…ITF style, by e-mail. You are blessed to have been able to maintain a continuing relationship with Richard. Only seeing him infrequently these last many years, I have vivid memories of our early years, I am sure you remember them also. Richard’s quick and interesting sense of humour as well as his loyal friendship, even after years had passed. I am deeply saddened for us all. I will, though, continue to enjoy those bright memories and hope you will too. Kind regards, -Tony Sasso, ITF Inspector |
| (posted on 24 April 2007) |
| We are deeply saddened to hear of Richard`s death. He was a shining star in the work of the ITF Communications Department, a dedicated brother whom we will always remember. -Dieter Benze, ver.di |
| Dear All at ITF worldwide, We wish to express our deep heartfelt condolence for an early tragic departure of our Dear Richard Flint. But what we know of him, he achieved a lot in a short span of his time on earth. He touched innumerable lives and made a difference for the better. As someone said that it is worth more to have a short fragrant life of a flower that gives happiness to a lot of people rather than a long and worthless long life of an old oak. We shall take solace in the fact that his life was worth its presence in physical form, but his life may continue to be a source of inspiration for those who wish to emulate him. A.I.F.F.A.E.U. -Vipin Sharma, Secretary General |
| David, Your letter dated 20 April, 2007 announcing the death of Bro.Flint is shoken to the ranks and files of the United Seamen, Ports & General Workers Union of Liberia. The letter was received and read with sadness, therefore, we take this time to extend to you colleagues of the ITF family, also to the family of the late brother. May his soul rest in peace. David, with the profiles given to us in the communication, the ITF have lost a strong advocator for the rights of workers for the Institution. We extend our sympathy and that you all take courage. Yours -C.Alfred Thomas, Acting Secretary General |
| (posted on 25 April 2007) |
| I joined the ITF at Head Office in September 1995 and by that time the physical manifestation of Richard’s medical condition was already obvious. And yet somehow you didn’t really notice it. Maybe that’s just because I didn’t know Richard before, but I think it was also because there were too many other things to concentrate on when dealing with Richard. His intelligence, his knowledge, his support, his kindness, his doggedness. The gleam in his eye and his cutting wit. He was always helpful, particularly when trying to decipher all things ITF. In most ways I was far less able than him. I only knew Richard for a short period (but I did get invited along to one of his birthday bashes – remember arriving, don’t remember leaving) and certainly not long enough to write as eloquently or as fondly as others. But he was just one of those people you were glad to have bumped into along the way. Condolences to his family and all of his friends. -Tommy Molloy, ITF Inspector, Liverpool |
| I was so sorry to hear that Richard has passed away. When he retired from the ITF in 1997 it was painful to watch him struggling with his terrible illness in the knowledge that it would only progressively worsen. He was always helpful and so knowledgeable; a truly committed campaigner for human and trade union rights. It is a great loss. -Joanne Abayasekara, University of Cambridge, former ITF Education and Projects Coordinator |
| I am very sad to hear the news about Richard. He was a unique intelligent and dedicated union man. It was a great pleasure to work with him in the preparation for the ITF centenary. We had many fascination discussions when I was in London during the years. Richard was always an inspiring and helpful person and had a wonderful humour. I learnt a lot from working with him. For Richard solidarity was something obvious. My thoughts today are with his family. I will think about Richard when I join the may day rally this year. Dear Richard, rest in peace. -Lennart Johnsson, Editor in Chief, SEKO Seafarers' Branch Sweden |
| I was very sad to learn of Richards passing. I first meet Richard in the early 90's at the WWIS in Eastbourne, and though it has been many years since I've last seen or spoke with him. His ideas and vision and love for his work as a trade unionist is a true inspiration for all. His memory will keep our fires burning. -Enrico Esopa, Seafarers International Union |
| (posted on 26 April 2007) |
| The ITF global family lost one of its most valuable members. I had the privilege to work closely with Richard Flint at a time of my service in the ITF Secretariat and had always appreciated his determination in what he was doing and the quality of his hard work as well as the kindness of his character. He will be remembered as a good colleague and a nice person. Please convey my condolences to Richard’ s family. -Agis G. Tselentis, Pan-Hellenic Seamen' s Federation PNO-Greece |
| I was very sad to learn of Richard’ s passing. On behalf the FIT/CISL Italy I would like to express you, dear David, our condolences for his lost. Please also convey our deep sympathy to his family. -Remo Di Fiore, FIT/CISL Italy |
| Strange and sad and moving to receive this because I guess I haven't thought about Richrad for 27 years or something. But as soon as I saw the name memories came rushing back. I guess I must have stood against him as the Socialist Worker candidate for President at Sussex. There was no contest because he was in a different league. Fun having rings run round you by Richard though. His subsequent life and Sam's beautiful description of his interests at that time amply prove who was the most creative and truly radical. So sad to hear of his death but so glad to be reminded of him. -Paul Carvajal, Sussex University |
| Like Paul Carvajal, I was at Sussex University with Richard. I didn't know him well but, no doubt like many other former students, I remember him vividly and I am saddened to hear of his death. He was one of the people who made the university in those days a politically and intellectually exciting place to be. From the messages here it is clear he remained a special person throughout his life. -Rosemary Martin |
| (posted on 27 April 2007) |
| Richard is someone who has heavily featured in any Sussex anecdotes from a very radical period. Sad that the answer to the 'I wonder what they are doing now' question should be so tragically answered. The energy and imagination he put into campaigns was a great example of how politics could be fun, and have substance. I (and I am sure many others) drew a lot of inspiration from his example, in ways he'll never know. Small surprise that at the time (late 70's) he should attract so much establishment attention. I recall a prominent 'hatchet' feature in either the Mail or Express, complete with partial out of context quotes, that he seemed almost proud of. Reading these tributes it is clear he never lost that radical edge. -Steve Lepper, ex-Sussex University |
| Like others I remember Richard from Sussex University - the sit-ins, the demos about so many different causes, so brilliantly organised and led by Richard. You could sometimes disagree with his tactics but never his powerful sense of injustice and belief the power of ordinary people to overcome it. His ability to motivate people to sleep on the really hard floors of various University faculty buildings night after night was legendary! After the university authorities finally got their way and expelled Richard, I am sad to say that I lost touch with what he went on to do, so it is really great to see how highly regarded and loved he was by trade unionists all over the world. I remember some of Richard's detractors on campus used to proclaim that he would sell out, and be a Tory-voting businessman by his mid-20's. But I knew he wouldn't. Richard, you were an inspiration! -Andy Richards, UNISON Brighton and Hove |
| I first met Richard in 1988 when I joined Poptel, then a small worker co-op dedicated to bringing online technologies to trades unions, NGOs and others working to improve the world. Richard was a stalwart supporter and a true innovator in the use of these technologies (one small example I remember is ITF inspectors equipped with laptops sending email over Inmarsat). He also had a fantastic and wicked sense of humour. His loss is a loss to us all. -Malcolm Corbett, CBN |
| I was very sorry to hear of Richard Flint's death. Reading the messages about Richard and looking at the website has brought back many memories. Kindest regards to everybody at the ITF. -Paula Naimi (née Hassett), University of Cambridge |
| I knew Richard when I was Director of the disability transport rights organisation DaRT (now Transport for Action) and he, as a member of its Board, was my boss sort of. It was always such a pleasure to meet him at a Board meeting. He was knowledgeable bright and very funny, with an irreverent sense of humour that always had a politically sound (and usually deeply subversive) point. He was one of those few shining souls I have met in my life who I could point to as an example of what being a real socialist is about. Sleep well dear comrade. -Sean Thompson, DaRT |
| I shared my first year digs at Sussex with Richard and only met up with him again at the reunion a few years ago. Only yesterday I was telling a young undergraduate how Richard taught me to relish the challenge of essays. I was in awe of his intellectual ability and spirit. I miss our yellow welly days! -Wendy Balchin (Jones), fellow Sussex Student |
| Firstly, deepest condolences go to Richard's family and colleagues from myself, Nozomi, Ayumi & Kairi. I sit here days after hearing of Richard's passing, looking at the spidery scrawl on a postcard I received many years and what seems like a couple of lives away.... An absent friend for too many years; I thank you Richard above all for your integrity, and thank you for paying attention to things that I have been too wayward to attend to. We never got the Student Union tank for Sussex Uni, but Richard, you would have been the perfect hood ornament: precariously balanced but fist defiantly clenched... As you said to me all those years ago... 'But seriously, but why? Keep on truckin'....' -Matt, The Sussex University Ley Line Society |
| (posted on 30 April 2007) |
| On behalf of the AIMPE Federal Executive we express our deep sadness at Richards passing and send our sincere condolences to all at ITF and to Richard's family. -Phil Olsen, Australian Institute of Marine and Power Engineers |
| -I shared a house with Richard and his sister/guardian Helen in the mid-1970's when Richard was a young schoolboy in Oxford. He was unfailingly kind and good-humoured, so it was easy to forgive him when, in the heatwave of 1976, he destroyed our fridge in a well-intentioned but ultimately fatal effort to defrost it with an improvised icepick. I will always remember his diffident smile, his humour and his intelligence. -Philip Rouse |
| Through working closely together translating and typesetting the Seafarers Bulletin in a dozen or so languages in the early '90s, Richard and I became good friends. It must have been '92 or '93 when he first mentioned that it was Ataxia which was causing him to stumble. I was shocked, and aware of a certain sadness. Richard of course would have none of this! After I left the UK, we lost touch. Richard made a vivid impression as a stolid person, a fighter and a man whose principles were paramount. We have lost a good man. -Ramsey Margolis, New Zealand Cooperatives Association |
| Liebe ITF-Freunde, Wir trauern mit Euch um Richard FLINT. Wir entbieten Euch und seiner Familie unser aufrichtiges Beileid. Die Verbandsleitung der FNCTTFEL -Guy Greivelding, FNCTTFEL |
| (posted on 2 May 2007) |
| To Richard and his family, Just after join the FKSU, I have been in London office for 3 months for OJT. I met him there first, still remember his smiling face with glass. Knew that he was smart, deligent. So sorry for losing a talented man with smile. My deepest condolence to him and his family. -HK Kim, Seoul, Korea FKSU |
| My condolences on the death of Brother Richard, whom I learnt to know a true trade unionist. It was wonderful to see his strength, courage and firm belief of the values the ITF stands for at the time when he must have known his days are numbered. -Timo Lappalainen, Service Centre for Development Cooperation |
| (posted on 3 May 2007) |
| Our union and all affilates across horizon of Ethiopia feel a deep sorrow since ITF'S global family lost Richard who was hero and deeply committed to the interests of workers of all nationalities. Richard, a man potent having strong personality and commitment was born and live and died for ITF during his life time. However, his deeds will glitter and evoke for ever in the remarkable history of ITF. -Girmay Tarekegn/ Daniel Gebeyehu, Transport & Communication Workers' Trade Union Industry Federation |
| I first met Richard in 1990, at a time when some of us, working with the ‘techies’ at Poptel in Manchester, had started to realise the potential that new computer communications might bring to the international labour movement. A small group formed, including Richard for the ITF, Jim Catterson for the ICEM, Taffy Adler of Worknet in South Africa, and Dave Spooner and me of the magazine ‘International Labour Reports’. Using email, we organised from our different locations across the world the first ever international conference on what we then called ‘Labour Telematics’, held at the GMB union College in Manchester in April 1992. One of our achievements was to get participants from a wide range of labour organisations, from the international unions to women workers’ networks. Richard had the vision, the intellect, the energy and the politics to help make that happen, and then to continue developing it for trade unionists around the world. It’s a great contribution he made. Thanks, Richard -Celia Mather, freelance writer |
| On behalf of the officers and members of the Transportation Communications International Union, I extend deepest sympathy on the loss of Brother Richard Flint. We have all benefited from his talents and commitment. Our condolences go to his family, friends and ITF colleagues. He will be missed. In solidarity, -Robert A. Scardelletti, International President, Transportation Communications International Union |
| On behalf of UNI Global Union, I would like to register our profound sadness at the tragic passing away of Richard Flint. We appreciated the immense contribution that Richard made to the ITF. If anyone in the international trade union world was responsible for pulling us all into the new internet age, then it was Richard. We have all lost a dedicated trade union officer and innovative thinker. We send our sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. -Philip J. Jennings, UNI Global Union |
| (posted on 5 May 2007) |
| It was with great sadness that I heard today that Richard had passed. I had the pleasure of going to McGill University, in Montreal, Quebec, while Richard was there. He worked on the McGill newspaper at the time. We met when friends had a small dinner party, and for a while we all took turns to host these small gatherings. Richard was always thought provoking and raised my awareness of politics and the political world. We had a stimulating discussion as to whether or not "the end justified the means" that started at dinner and took a few of us all along a very cold stretch of Sherbrooke street in Montreal. Of course, it finished in consensus. Our last meeting was in London in 1994. We saw the apartment in Hackney, and as tradition dictated, we had a lovely dinner. Condolences to all who knew him, at least we crossed paths with Richard -Danielle de Smit |
| (posted 7 May 2007) |
| Recently i was facilitating a workshop at a conference centre in Ontario where, over 25 years ago, i had a spent an unusual week between christmas and new years at the annual Canadian University Press conference. I walked downstairs to a basement room where, over 25 years ago, Richard and i had devoted a rather insane amount of time to running and fixing (jury-rigging and cursing, actually) a Gestetner copying machine which we were using to produce the daily newsletter for the conference. Standing in that room again, only a few months ago, i felt i could see our ghostly echoes from s long ago - two young men, only recently teenagers, wrestling like devils to make sure that our 150 or so fellow student journalists would have their newsletter for breakfast. It was, as was usually the case, a crazy week of sleeplessness, poor food, better-living-through-chemistry (and, oh, what chemistry we imbibed, inhaled, popped, etc.), and wonderful, youthful, crazy camaraderie. I loved Richard dearly in those years and have regretted over the years having lost touch. We visited a couple of times in the 80s but our paths diverged, as often happens. But my fondness for Richard has never diminished. And, while i had heard though he grapevine some years ago that he was ill, i had no idea it entailed such suffering. I am sad for that. And i am glad to read here of his successes and friendships that lasted. Wherever his spirit has ventured, i send love. And to family, friends and colleagues, my condolences -Chris Cavanagh, Catalyst Centre |
| (posted 8 May 2007) |
| Quienes hemos conocido a Richard, nunca le olvidaremos y estará presente , siempre con nosotros, en las victorias que el movimiento sindical vaya consiguiendo. -Esteban Pereda, ELA |
| (posted 9 May 2007) |
| Letter to David Cockcroft/ITF From the Kenya Railway Workers Union. Dear Brother, The Kenya Railway Workers Union, through your circular of 20th April, 2007, learned with deep regrets the death of Brother Richard Flint, your former assistant when you were head of the ITF Research and Publication Department in 1993 and until 1997 whilst in the communications Department. We have noted with great sorrow that the Trade movement has lost a great son who had assisted the Unions in most areas as stipulated in your circular. On behalf of the entire Railway fraternity we convey our deepest heartfelt sympathy and condolences to his family for the irreparable loss of their beloved. Yours fraternally, John K. Kaunga On behalf of the General Secretary |
| Letter from All India Railwaymen’s Federation. Dear Brother, AIRF is shocked to learn about the sad demise of Bro. Richard Flint. His Death is an irreparable loss to the working class movement in general and the ITF in particular. Bro. Flint was deeply committed to the trade union movement and workers’ rights. His commitment to the interests of the workers of all nationalities will always be remembered by the workers of all nationalities for year to come. May God give eternal peace to the departed sole. JP Chaubey, General Secretary - AIRF |
| (posted on 10 May 2007) |
| Dear Colleague, [...] The contents of your letter [regarding the passing of Richard Flint] shows the grave loss by the ITF in particular and the affiliates in general for which we griefly regret. On behalf of the RWUZ NEC members in particular and the rank and file members in general, I write to convey our condolences to the family and the ITF. May His Soul Rest in Peace. Yours faithfully James M Kapyanga, General Secretary, Railway Workers Union of Zambia |
| On behalf of SNA, I regret this terrible loss. -JOÃO PEDRO PASSOS DE SOUSA LEITE, SINDICATO NACIONAL DOS AERONAUTAS |
| (posted on 15 May 2007) |
|
Ricard will be missed! Our deepest condolences, -Louie "Bud" Jacque, MEBA USA |
| (posted on 18 May 2007) |
| I just wanted to say how sorry I was to hear the sad news about Richard Flint and offer my condolences. Richard was always really friendly and made me feel very welcome from when I first starting working, as a freelance graphic designer, for the ITF (which must be over a decade ago now). He also always took an interest in my design work, such as the new ITF logo, and was keen to swap Mac and technology tips and talk politics. I hope his memory serves as an inspiration. -Lionel Openshaw, Graphic Designer |
| Richard was one of the most intelligent, energetic people I've ever met, and such a nice guy too. The way he carried on with his life despite his disability was awesome. Somehow he managed to keep his focus "out there" rather than feeling sorry for himself. I am so sad to hear that he's gone. -Bill Curd, ex-ITF Staff, retired |
| (posted on 21 May 2007) |
| I knew Richard mainly for a happy couple of years, when we were neighbours in Montreal in the early/mid eighties. We already had many friends & acquaintances in common; these being the pre-internet, pre-alternative- press days, when the underground lived by word-of-mouth and flyposters. Richard was always someone who lived life to the fullest (which of course is explained in retrospect), and got a remarkable amount done for someone who had as much fun as he did. The previous poster's remark about bridging the politicos & the hedonists is very apt on this point. At that time Richard was busy subverting a moribund sunday sports rag with indie music reviews and legalise-the-herb columns, and had also infiltrated Lyndon Larouche's Canadian organisation. He would regale Odette & I with entertaining reports from their meetings, and the arrival of their newsletter (usually with headlines like "Queen Elizabeth & the Pope behind world heroin trade") was always cause for a mirthful hour or two over a bottomless bottle of Jameson. Our flats (on Fairmount street, just off St. Lawrence) shared an entrance and a back balcony; his door was always open in the most neighbourly way, and we had several memorable double-parties. He always had a steady supply of new music coming in via review copies, and it's a testament to his loveableness that I didn't even mind his habit of starting his day much earlier than I would have (being a DJ at the time) by blasting Frankie Goes to Hollywood's Two Tribes, complete with air-raid siren intro, about a yard and a thin wall from the head of my bed. I only saw him once after he returned to England (though we kept in touch somewhat via Martin Siberok,) in 1999 with Odette & our son Émile. He was still somewhat autonomous, living in the Alaska building, and was generous and full of life as ever, despite his advancing disability. We got carry-out grub, and he set up Émile in another room with his vast collection of old comics, so we could catch up in peace and deplete his stock of medication. Even though his condition was well advanced, he never showed the faintest trace of self-pity, and was as dignified yet full of piss'n'vinegar as ever. I can imagine him making a face at being remembered in spiritual terms, but his was a great spirit. He was open to one and all: he had strong opinions that he could state eloquently, but always welcomed intelligent debate and was never mean-spirited, closed-minded, or cliquish. Here's to you, Richard, you won't be forgotten. Many of those that remember him in Canada will be gathering in his honour on June 2 in Montreal: anyone who's interested & has slipped through the invitation net should drop a line. hutchinson.patrick [AT] gmail [DOT] com -Patrick Hutchinson, Musician, Montreal (though raised in rural Argyll & Lincolnshire) |
| (posted on 22 May 2007) |
| On behalf of our members, I express deepest condolence on the death of dear Richard. His contributions especially with internet have galvanised the labour movement and made some of us who are geographically away, very much a part of ITF. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. regards, -Seema Rawat, A.Gen.Secretary,AICCA,INDIA |
| When Richard left Canada and began to work for the ITF, I used to receive letters in which his passion for his work was overwhelming. Every letter was an education for me, on the situations of transport workers and unions all over the world. Richard believed in his work, and in the people who were working with him. He was a brilliant, witty, analytical and kind man, and he wanted to offer all of his talents and abilities to the members of the ITF. The genetic disease that first made it impossible for him to work and then took his life is a tragic thing. On a personal level, as a friend, this is a terrible loss. The old phrase "his likes will not be seen again" comes to mind, but it's wrong. There will never be another Richard Flint, but hopefully, his likes will be seen again, more and more as we move towards the just and egalitarian society he believed in and worked for. -Gary Elson, writer, Montreal, Quebec |
| Richard and I chatted a bit by email in recent years and I knew he was very ill. But I also knew he had thrown himself into living with his disease -- that he was fighting it, fighting to live with it -- fighting it the same way he fought his other causes. Unconsciously, I guess I figured he would win. He generally did. I'm sorry this was not to be. He was quite a guy, that Richard. I spent many an hour with him in Montreal over many a beer. Shrouded in clouds of smoke from his American cigarettes. Endlessly debating and redebating the puny stuff of student politics and the bigger stuff. Among other adventures, Richard and I were half of Montreal's little-known but (among the relevant handful of members) fondly remembered "socialist wargamer collective". We played interminable, intricate fantasy boardgames in his cockroach-infested St.Urbain Street apartment, killing many bottles of jameson whisky. Only irish whisky would do, of course. Another of his causes. Like Chris Cavanagh above, I met him in the Canadian student press. He arrived among us as a flaming crusader after a brief, memorable and abruptly-ended career as an elected Vice-president in our stodgy, conservative McGill students' union -- an organization then focused on running a pub and a cafeteria. Not his cup of tea. But he was more than fine with us. He lit up our student newspaper like a candle. It perhaps took a little while to pay off the consequent budget deficit. But those years he was around were very interesting times indeed to be a volunteer with the paper. His stuff still reads pretty well, too. What a wretched thing he's left us so soon. -Brian Topp, ACTRA Toronto |
| (posted 23 May 2007) |
| Dear General Secretary, Thank you for passing this on. This is a sad news and a great loss for the ITF and the Trade Union movement world wide. We were so shocked to hear of Richard Flint death. It is a terrible loss for us, and he will be missed very deeply. It's a great pity that he did not fully enjoy his life due to bad health. We express our sympathy and deepest condolences to you, family and Richard's friends. -N. Barsky, Ukrainian Marine Trade Unions’ Federation |
| (posted on 24 May 2007) |
| I was very sad to learn of Richards passing when I was over in London, when David told me. I first met Richard in 1986, when he started to work for the ITF together with David and he was a hard working firend amoung all of us and deeply respected for the work he carried out. He was a great help and his ideas as and love for his work as a trade unionist is a true inspiration for all of us. Please also convey our deep sympathy to his family. -Ruud Touwen - ITF Coordinator NL |
| (posted on 25 May 2007) |
| Dear Brother, I am shocked to learn about the sad demise of Bro. Richard Flint. His death is an irreparable loss to the working class in general and the ITF in particular. I pray to the Almighty to give eternal peace to his soul. -Umraomal Purohit, All India Railwaymen’s Federation |
| (posted on 29 May 2007) |
| Dear Colleague, It is with great sorrow that we have received the sad news of the death and untimely passing of your assistant, Richard Flint. We know how much he meant to you and ITF both as a fine staff member and as a friend. Please accept our heartfelt condolences and convey our deepest sympathy to his family and associates. -Korea Automobile & Transport Workers' Federation |
| I too knew Richard at McGill. Chris and Brian and Patrick say it best. A man of strong intellect, passions, and a strong sense of fairness. I will always remember him in that photo from the demo - defiantly and gleefully standing under that burning flag. Richard was always mindfully in the moment. - Michael "Fred" Methot, PETL |
| Dear David, I was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of Richard Flint. The strength and quality of ITF's communications program are apparent to everyone who comes into contact with your organization. I know that Richard, with his dynamism, creativity and commitment to workers' rights, was a primary architect of your outreach efforts. In extending our heartfelt condolences to the ITF family, everyone here at the Masters, Mates & Pilots finds inspiration in the story of Richard's life, and comfort in the knowledge that his fine work will be carried on by the colleagues to which he was so attached. In sympathy and solidarity - Timothy A Brown, International President, Masters, Mates & Pilots, USA |
| (posted on 01 June 2007) |
| Monsieur le Secrétaire Général, La nouvelle du décès de Richard Flint nous a profondément attristé. Au nom des militants du Syndicat Libre des Cheminots du Burkina (SLCB) et a mon nom personnel, je vous adresse à vous, son proche collaborateur et sa famille nos sincères condoléances. - Coulibaly Dédougou, Le Secrétaire Général du Syndicat Libre des Cheminots du Burkina Faso |
| posted on 06 June 2007 |
| Dear Brother David We are very saddened to learn of the death of brother RICHARD at such a tender age when his contribution were so much needed. We share the grief with his workmates and family. May his soul rest in peace, we trust the Lord willc omfort his family. Yours faithfully - S.A.P Phiri, General Secretary, National Union of Transport & Allied Workers, Zambia |
| (posted on 12 June 2007) |
| Monsieur le Secrétaire Général, La nouvelle du décès de Richard Flint nous a profondément attristé. Au nom des militants du Syndicat Libre des Cheminots du Burkina (SLCB) et a mon nom personnel, je vous adresse à vous, son proche collaborateur et sa famille nos sincères condoléances. -Coulibaly Dédougou, Le Secrétaire Général du Syndicat Libre des Cheminots du Burkina |
| Je suis attristé de la mort de Richard Frint, le SYPPASP et moi-même compatissons à la douleur de la famille syndicale et de sa famille. -Camarade BROU KOBRAN BENJAMIN SECRETAIRE GENERAL DU SYPPASP BP 340 SAN PEDRO |
| Greetings friends and comrades of old, [...] For now, one small memory of a wacky time with Richard: Some of you may recall the first Simon and Garfunkle reunion concert in Central Park NY. Well, if memory serves, we were just wrapping up an anti-apartheid fundraising event when someone (my memory says it was me, but that could be simply revisionist self-serving recall) suggested we drive to New York and catch the concert. I rented a car. And Richard, myself, Keith Hennessey, Liz Norman (student council prez at the time) and one other whom i'm forgetting for the moment. We drove to New York just in time to miss the concert. We wandered around the freshly abandoned concert site and Keith and i slipped behind the roadie line and help carry a couple of pieces of equipment which we felt earned us the right to the hot dogs being grilled for the roadies. We ferried some over to our fellow travellers. After lamenting our missed opportunity we drove out to Queens where we spent the evening with Liz Lilker (a former fellow student for us all and an ex for Richard). We had a festive if slightly awkward evening. We then treated ourselves to Broadway Plays on Sunday afternoon before heading home (Liz Norman and i went to see Children of a Lesser God) while Richard, Keith and the person i owe great apologies to for forgetting them went to see some other show (something to do with cabbage and arsenic or somesuch). Then driving out of New York up 11th avenue we saw a llama being lead along the sidewalk by a fellow dressed in Bolivian pauncho and hat. We piled out of the car to see and seemed to scare the bejeezus out of the poor llama-leader. He went into the Irish Cultural Center - llama and all. It was a crazy weekend with beloved friends and i share this imperfect recall in honour of Richard. May his soul be at rest. i send you all love and hugs. -Chris Cavanagh |
| (posted on 27 September 2007) |
| Dear Brother, We received your letter which you sent on 20.04.07 you mentioned there about death of Richard Flint. Who is sincerely serve ITF as a trade unionist for long time. We are very shocked to Knew his death. Really we lost a good organizer of ITF. It is a sadest for us of ITF family. We want to take a Condolence program in our country after lifting the ban on trade union activities. Our heartiest sympathy for his family and colleagues. Thanking you, Yours sincerely, Shajahan Khan, Executive President Bangladesh Road Transport Worker’s Federation |
| It is with a lot of respect & honour that we of the Association of professional Navigators of Cameroon (APRONACAM) and Cameroon Navigators and Seafarers Union (AMAGM-CAM) could not stay silent haven learnt of the death of Richard Flint. Without much to say, 'Richard your body and flesh is gone, but your spirit and soul remain with adherents and followers of ITF philosophies which is making maximum use of all communication systems to reach the needy'. Rest in peace. Patrice Young APRONACAM / AMAGEM-CAM |
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