Workers’ Union accords UPP its endorsement for upcoming polls, believing Party will be a respectful partner in labour relations

The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) says it recognizes the pivotal nature of the pending polls, and the upcoming elections provide an opportunity for residents to part ways with an administration that has repeatedly bullied and trampled upon the rights of workers.

Referring to Government’s forced-vaccination initiative, the Union says that, “to date, hundreds of workers are yet to be compensated … after they were wrongfully dismissed for asserting their right to choose what goes into their bodies.”

Additionally, the Union reminds the electorate that hundreds of former LIAT workers are still languishing, after having been denied a fair severance settlement.  

It adds that the Gaston Browne Administration refuses to entertain any dialogue with the workers’ legally recognized bargaining agent, the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union.

Accordingly, the Union is commending the United Progressive Party (UPP), which it says is already demonstrating a willingness to cooperate in addressing the issues that are affecting workers.

“The ABWU believes that the United Progressive Party will be a respectful partner in labour relations; a partner that will not bully and intimidate other stakeholders in the world of work,” a release from the Union says.

Therefore, the Union has come out to publicly offer its endorsement and support for the UPP as it contests the January 18 General Elections.