In response to the killing of contractor Glenroy James and Nation photojournalist Christoff Griffith on June 22, Dennis De Peiza, general secretary of the Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB), has said new consideration for safety at work is necessary.
The double murder, which took place on the abandoned property of the Anglican Diocese at Bishop’s Court, St Michael, claimed the lives of Griffith, 25, of Laynes Road, Brittons Hill, St Michael, a photographer at the NATION since 2014, and James, a 51-year-old maintenance worker of Grazettes, St Michael.
James, a sub-contractor with A&B Maintenance, had reached the secluded location ahead of the other members of the company after arrangements to meet there to carry out excavation work commissioned by property owners, the Anglican Diocese.
Crew members discovered James’ body. Griffith was responding to a report of a body in Bishop’s Court, when he too was attacked and killed.
Please see De Peiza’s statement below.
“The tragic news of the murder of two Barbadian workers while on the job, by an unknown assailant, has been devastating to the psyche of the people of this nation.
“The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB), as the representative voice of labour, condemns the barbaric act which was perpetrated.
“This unexpected and sad occurrence, has sought to undermine the national effort that is directed at promoting safe people, safe work, in a safe environment. In light of this tragedy, and recognising the risks that come with the job for workers operating in uncontrolled environments, this brings to the fore the need to give consideration to how best to address the issue of workplace safety for such vulnerable workers.
“CTUSAB, in joining the nation in mourning the loss of these two victims, takes this opportunity to extend its condolences to members of the respective immediate families, friends, employers and work colleagues.” (PR)
