BASIC RIGHTS TO union representation and collective bargaining are under threat.
This was revealed by newly installed general secretary of the Barbados Workers’ Union, Toni Moore, today as she spoke about the Union’s celebration of World Day For Decent Work .
Speaking at Solidarity House during a press conference, Moore said even as the special day was being recognised around the world, in many countries the basic right to union representation and collective bargaining remained under threat and in some places under direct attack.
“Some employers even here in Barbados are attempting to challenge decades of legal recognition for the right to union representation and collective bargaining. Sadly as well, is the fact that many governments are failing in their responsibility to protect working people and are thereby failing to secure a better sustainable future for us, for our children and for our childrens’ children,” she noted as she called on government, employers and even individuals to take responsibility for their actions.
The theme for this year is Justice for Workers and Climate Justice.
Moore pointed out that climate justice was a social issue and many employers were being affected by carbon emission, natural disasters and limited access to health care.
The BWU has also joined the Caribbean Policy Development Centre (CPDC) in calling on regional governments to move swiftly to allow the free movement of domestic workers and artisans.
Pointing out that artisans and domestic workers were added as categories of skilled workers within the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), Moore lamented that governments across CARICOM had been slow to enact legislation and administrative procedures that would enable these groups to take advantage of their rights.
“As a result the BWU and CPDC have joined forces on a project called Making the CSME Work for Domestic and Artisans which offers support directly to members of those groups who wish to move freely to work within the CSME,” Moore said. (MB)
