ABWU Conference ends with election of Executive, a mix of seasoned and new officers representing a gender balance

Following the two-day 55th annual Delegates Conference of the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU), a new Executive Committee has been put in place, with the return of some of the old officers.

The Executive Committee comprises General Secretary David Massiah; President Kem Riley; first Vice President Hazel Luke; second Vice President Monique James-Roberts; and Treasurer Fernando Samuel

Other members include Trustees Romelia Daniel, Everlie Simon and Eugene Hurst. The new Executive Committee comprises nine women and eight men.

The Executive Committee will serve the Union’s membership for the next two years and will include a floor member from each of the Union’s 10 sections: Aviation and Airlines; Administrative and Clerical; Banking and Insurance; Commerce and Retail; Distribution and Manufacturing; Hotels, Restaurants and Catering; Telecommunications; Transport; Utilities and General Workers.

The President of the Youth Arm will also sit on the Executive Committee.

Speaking at the conclusion of the conference, Massiah underscored the significance of the task ahead for the new Executive and encouraged the section leaders to play a more active role in advancing the cause of workers.

President Riley expressed his gratitude to the conference for his re-election to lead the organisation.

Meanwhile, former Prime Minister and veteran trade unionist Dr. Baldwin Spencer commended the conference for electing an Executive Committee that is gender balanced. “This,” he says “is definitely a tremendous accomplishment.”

Spencer also urged the Executive to take its responsibilities seriously and to dedicate its time, effort and expertise to ensuring that the mission of the Union is accomplished.

The 55th annual Delegates Conference was held under the theme: “Uniting Workers with a Renewed Vision” and ran from Sunday 25 to Monday, 26 September.