AN allocation of $300,000 to review the Labour Act underscores the government’s commitment to essential worker reforms in the country as employers and employees mark Labour Day.
In celebration of Labour Day, the government asserted its dedication to fostering a harmonious working relationship between employers and employees, which stands at the forefront of this year’s Labour Day programme.
Minister for Labour, Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte, expressed satisfaction with the response from trade union representatives, praising the government’s initiatives that enhance worker welfare. She emphasised that significant improvements have been made within the ministry to bolster “human resource capacity,” with plans to engage with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in June for the ratification of two pivotal conventions known as the Fundamental Conventions of the ILO.
“Upon ratifying these two conventions, Saint Lucia will emerge as either the first or second country in the Caribbean to have ratified all ILO conventions,” she asserted during a media briefing on Monday.
Dr. Albert-Poyotte highlighted the direct benefits that trade unions have experienced from government policies. For instance, the Fire Services received critical equipment and new fire trucks, the teachers’ union is pleased with the provision of vacation pay in August for temporary teachers, and the nurses’ association commends the initiative to provide ‘permanency’ and increased job security for its members, along with enhanced training opportunities for nurses.
The Labour Minister also addressed the status of the Civil Service Association (CSA) regarding a pension scheme and the permanent placement of at least 1,900 non-established government workers.
Dr. Poyotte pointed out that union representatives recognized the government’s proactive approach in addressing previous industrial conflicts.
Moreover, she announced that the government is executing a major initiative involving the reclassification of the Public Service. “The last reclassification was done in 1992, resulting in a disconnect where appointed workers may not match the required skills, knowledge, abilities, and experience,” she stated.
Targeting important sectors, Dr. Albert-Poyotte said that these changes would primarily impact the Protective Services, which encompass police officers, fire officers, and Bordelais Correctional Facility officers.
Importantly, the ILO has classified fire service officers as an ‘essential service,’ paving the way for appropriate salary grading based on their work nature.
On this matter, she acknowledged existing challenges with promotion criteria within the fire service and assured that these concerns would be addressed within the Public Service.
Dr. Poyotte pointed out, “Our long-term vision is to tackle the entire issue of promotions effectively.”
The theme for this year’s Labour Day was “Revolutionizing Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitization at Work.”
On April 23, the Department of Labor and Gender Affairs, in collaboration with the Trade Union Federation (TUF) and the Saint Lucia Employers’ Federation (SLEF), launched a week of observance events designed to enhance awareness and engagement.
Minister Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte emphasized the importance of strong partnerships between employers and employees to build a resilient workforce.
Addressing the recent influx of skilled workers from abroad, Dr. Albert-Poyotte urged trade unions to remain vigilant about local workforce representation. She announced the appointment of Sheila Imbert as the new Permanent Secretary to strengthen human resources and highlighted ongoing administrative improvements.
Key activities included a national consultation on ILO Conventions on April 24, a Labor Fair at Derek Walcott Square on April 25, and a health screening drive on April 28.
On April 30, a logo competition was held for a new tripartite body unifying the Department of Labor, TUF, and SLEF. The week culminated in a rally and brunch at the Vigie Sports Complex on Labour Day, May 1.
R.A.