The Government of Saint Lucia has officially signed a series of new Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) with key public sector unions, strengthening employment terms and benefits for the periods 2022–2025 and 2025–2028.
The agreements were reached following extensive negotiations between the Government Negotiating Team (GNT), the Department of Labour, and representatives from the following unions:
- Saint Lucia Civil Service Association (CSA)
- Saint Lucia Fire Service Association
- Saint Lucia Medical and Dental Association
- Saint Lucia Teachers’ Union
- Vieux Fort General and Dock Workers Union
- Board of Governors – Sir Arthur Lewis Community College
- Saint Lucia Correctional Services Welfare Association
Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Economic Development, the Youth Economy, Justice and National Security, Honourable Philip J. Pierre, described the signing as a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to public servants.
“The government will always do its best to ensure that the welfare of workers is prioritized,” said Prime Minister Pierre. “We may not always be able to meet every request, but within our national resources, we are committed to doing everything we can to improve the lives of our workers.”
Minister for the Public Service, Labour, and Gender Affairs, Honourable Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte, explained that the negotiation process followed a strategic structure, first addressing non-financial matters before transitioning to discussions on salaries and allowances.
“These agreements introduced new articles and clauses designed to close long-standing gaps in employee benefits,” noted Minister Albert-Poyotte. “Key improvements include: a payment to teachers for marking and submitting CXC School-Based Assessments (SBAs); compensation for temporary teachers during August preparation week; extended maternity leave of up to one additional month; and enhanced professional development support for medical practitioners.”
The President of the Saint Lucia Trade Union Federation, Mr. Julian Monrose, praised the collaborative spirit of the negotiations, noting the balance between advocacy and compromise.
“The employer doesn’t give you everything you ask for, but you negotiate to achieve the best for your members,” he stated. “This round of negotiations was marked by compromise, and our union leaders should be proud of what was accomplished.”
Mr. Monrose further emphasized the importance of accountability among workers, urging public servants to honor their duties and contribute to increased national productivity.
The signing of these agreements marks a major milestone in the ongoing effort to modernize public sector employment and improve the well-being of public officers across Saint Lucia.