Workers Union issues call to hotel employees who were terminated by ABHTA’s Oct 16 vaccination mandate

The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union seems set to challenge the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA), which has terminated employees who had not received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine – or been exempted – by October 16.

The Association has also indicated that staff who failed to turn out to work because they are not vaccinated have forfeited their employment.

However, the ABWU is advising all unionized hotel workers who have received such notification of termination from their employer to contact the Union.

Additionally, it advises that any other correspondence related to termination due to their unvaccinated status should also be brought to the ABWU’s Secretariat, located at Freedom Hall, Lower Newgate Street, on or before October 26. 

The Union says it will continue to provide guidance and assistance to its membership in this regard going forward.

The ABHTA had cautioned workers that those who refused, neglected, or otherwise failed to get vaccinated, or to procure an Exemption Certificate, after September 30 would not be accommodated in the workplace.

It said the decision was taken to provide a safe workplace for both employees and guests. 

Earlier, the ABHTA said its vaccination mandate was premised on its legal right to determine who could access its private properties.