Workers at Preconco have downed tools in protest over what they describe as poor working conditions, safety violations, and wage disparities.
The Barbados Workers’ Union (BWU) has thrown its support behind the striking employees, citing ongoing issues that have yet to be resolved.
Deputy General Secretary of the BWU, Dwaine Paul, stated that workers have raised concerns about improper working equipment, inadequate facilities, mismanagement of personal protective equipment (PPE), and a lack of proper investigations into workplace incidents.
“These are situations that should not be happening in 2025. There is enough information available about wages, trade conditions, and safety standards for us not to still be discussing basic things like providing safety boots,” Paul said.
A key issue driving the protest is the disparity in wages between local workers and Cuban labourers recently brought onto the project. According to Paul, the Cuban workers, many of whom are trained by Preconco’s existing staff, earn USD $60 per day, while Barbadian employees are making approximately BBD $13.13 per hour, amounting to around USD $55 for an eight-hour shift.
Workers are also alleging exploitation of non-national employees, with reports that some are required to work seven days a week for more than eight hours per day.
The BWU has reached out to Preconco’s management and is anticipating a meeting to discuss the workers’ grievances. However, Paul made it clear that employees remain resolute and will not return to work until they receive an official response from the company.
“We are hopeful that discussions will bring some relief, but in the meantime, the workers are standing firm, particularly regarding the treatment of their colleagues,” he said.
