The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) has expressed concern over what it described as the “haste of the Government of Barbados to move the country to a republican system of government”.
“CTUSAB is of the view that any changes to the island’s constitution . . . should be the subject of intense consultation with all stakeholders and the people of Barbados.
“Without this desired level of discussion or consultation on proposed changes to the nation’s constitution, CTUSAB is worried that the desired level of unanimity and support for this move will not be achieved, and has the potential to be divisive about a measure that is intended to deepen a sense and commitment to greater and better nation building,” a statement said.
CTUSAB called on the members of the non-governmental organisation (NGO) community, the political scientists at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus, leaders of the church, political parties, lobbyist groups and individual trade unions of Barbados, to speak.
CTUSAB asked what protections there are for labour under a revised constitution.
“There is also the concern of what are the implications for the commemoration of Independence Day, if the move to a republic is effected.
“CTUSAB calls upon the Government of Barbados, to respect and adhere to the democratic principles, which it has committed to following, by engaging in the process of consultation, collaboration and dialogue. (PR)
