MINISTER OF LABOUR Dr Esther Byer-Suckoo says she believes there is still a need for trade unions in Barbados but she says their role may now have to change.
And addressing the 72nd annual delegates conference of the Barbados Workers’ Union (BWU) this morning, the minister urged cooperation.
“While some of the issues remain, there are new issues that the union needs to work with its members and its partners to address. The union needs to ensure that it continues to be a key development partner in the new social, economic and environmental agenda,” she told the packed Sir Hugh Springer Auditorium at the union’s Solidarity House headquarters.
“It is the union that will have to determine how to remain relevant and necessary today.”
The theme of change ran through Dr Byer-Suckoo’s address at the conference’s opening ceremony as she contended that Barbados is at a crossroad and change is necessary, economic and otherwise.
“My humble suggestion to all of us, in this season of change, is that we approach it together. Let us put our heads together and explore new opportunities to be greater, better. Let us talk about what we all want out of this and how we can achieve it – together. Ultimately all of us in this room want the same thing- for Barbados to be better for us and our children. Let us forge a way,” she said.
“So I urge the BWU as I encourage all of us. We may not go back to the way things were. Things are changing. The world is changing. Barbados is changing. Let us together ensure that the changes are for our mutual benefit. I look forward to continuing to work with the BWU and with all of you at this cross-road, to make Barbados greater than ever, whether or not we go down in history.”
The Labour Minister was among the specially invited guests at today’s ceremony.
Others included Leader of the Opposition Mia Mottley, director of the International Labour Office’s Caribbean office Dr Giovannia di Cola, members of parliament and senators, and members of the diplomatic corps.
During the opening ceremony, Professor Trevor Hassell, the Productivity Council, Dorsie Boyce, Anthony Sargeant, the Barbados Manufacturers’ Association and the National Initiative for Service Excellence were awarded for their service to the union and the country. (DP)