The commencement of payments to former employees of Majestic Industries Limited has begun following successful consultations with the National Workers Union [NWU] and the Ministry of Labour, Prime Minister Philip J Pierre announced today.
A total of 196 Saint Lucians were deprived of their wages and terminal benefits when Majestic Industries Limited abruptly ended its operations in Saint Lucia in 2004. Shortly after assuming office, however, Pierre, indicated his desire to pursue a resolution on the longstanding matter and has finally brought an end to the situation.
“The sudden closure of Majestic Industries Limited placed many of the former employees on the breadline. Prime Minister Pierre’s considerate decision in the interest of the former employees of Majestic Industries Limited is consistent with and exemplifies his administration’s commitment to the foundational principle of Putting People First,” a statement from the Office of the Prime Minister read in part.
On November 14, 2022, cabinet agreed to facilitate a one-time, lump sum payment to the former employees. The disbursement commenced on December 23, 2022.
According to the statement, “each former employee will receive an XCD 10,000 payment from the Government of Saint Lucia. The value of the compensation package for the former employees of Majestic Industries stands at XCD 1.96 million.”