It is with great sadness that the BWI learnt of the passing away of our colleague William Van der Straeten on 4 January 2105 at the age of 60, after a long period of illness. William has been working in the secretariat of the European Federation of Building and Wood Workers, EFBWW, since May 1992. He was the political secretary for the wood, furniture and forestry sectors and was strongly involved in the European Works Councils activities of the EFBWW.
The BWI appreciated William's dedication to the defence of workers’ rights and interests throughout Europe. He believed in independent and democratic trade unions and was a strong promoter of workers' participation in the world of labour.
William will be sadly missed by all as a colleague and a friend.
The BWI conveys its deep and sincere condolences to his family and friends, as well as to the leadership of the EFBWW.