Last Friday, delegates and representatives from various public and private sector enterprises gathered to participate in the National Workers Union (NWU) Annual Congress of Delegates at its headquarters, the John Burke King Industrial Academy at Unity House in Sans Soucis.
The meeting was held under the theme: “The National Workers Union must continue to defend, protect, and advance the economic, social, political, and industrial achievements that have been made over the years.”
Participants engaged in a comprehensive, interactive, and insightful discussion, with key issues—including the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence on the modern workforce—taking center stage.
NWU General Secretary Johann Harewood updated reporters on the relevant issues under discussion. “This year, we will focus on some of the challenges we have experienced, including the thrust of Artificial Intelligence, technological change, and other changes happening around us,” he explained.
Harewood also emphasized the importance of revisiting the issue of collective bargaining.
“These are matters we feel need to be brought back to the table for preservation, and several of these will be discussed at length,” he stated.
Kissinger Smith, Senior Labour Officer at the Ministry of Labour, remarked that the theme signals the NWU’s commitment to advocating for workers’ rights and fair compensation. He reiterated the necessity of worker support for the NWU to function effectively and to revitalize the industrial relations environment across the country.
“For decades, the National Workers Union has served as the collective voice of the working class,” he declared. “You are the shield that defends the economic dignity of workers. Through collective bargaining, you have ensured that the wealth created by the ‘hands of labour’ is shared fairly, enabling families to live with dignity and plan for the future.”
Smith further added, “On the social front, you have fought for more than just wages; you have advocated for healthcare, medication, housing, and community safety.”
Cletus Springer, Chairman of the CANARI & SALCC Board of Governors, delivered the feature address, highlighting Saint Lucia’s vulnerability to external shocks and their dire consequences.
He mentioned, “While tourism generates valuable foreign exchange, it also creates seasonal instability, necessitating longer working hours and leaving workers and the industry exposed to vulnerabilities.”
Springer emphasized, “In such a scenario, the NWU must continue to provide workers with a collective voice to negotiate fair wages, severance packages, health benefits, and contingency planning for crises.”
During the latter session, NWU President General Tyrone Maynard acknowledged the gathering via video conference call. At the business meeting, Credential Reports were presented by Caroline Montoute-Caroo, and auditor Mario Lendor provided an overview of the Financial Statements.
Additionally, the following Portfolio Reports were delivered:
– Johann Harewood – Negotiations & Grievance Handling
– Embert Eugene – Negotiations & Grievance Handling
– Norma Maynard – Education & Training