CTUSAB ‘on watch’ for rising unemployment

The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations said today it is keeping close tabs on a “worrying” rise in joblessness across Barbados.

General Secretary Dennis DePeiza citing the loss of some 149 jobs due to the recent closure of three restaurants operated by Chaps Restaurants Limited and the temporary closure of the Peach and Quiet Hotel, said there is cause for concern. He claimed that more layoffs were imminent under the Government’s retrenchment programme in the public service.

In a statement, DePeiza said: The unemployment situation is highlighted by the fact that many small enterprises located in the Malls and Corporate Centres across the island have closed their doors to businesses. This is evident by the number of vacant spaces.

“The continued unemployment or displacement of citizens during their most productive years is regrettable, considering that growth in the economy is desirable, now, more than ever.”

The CTUSAB boss slammed the abrupt closure of Cin Cin  by the Sea, Hugo’s Barbados and Primo Bar and Restaurants Limited, declaring it a “flagrant violation” of the Employment Rights Act.

He said: “The action of Chaps Restaurants Limited, demonstrates both disregard and disrespect for engaging in the process and procedure as directed by law.”

Insisting that the issue should “engage the immediate attention of the Social Partnership,” DePeiza stressed that a private sector firm cannot be allowed act in such as irresponsible manner.

He said: “In much the same way that CTUSAB condemns the action of Government in providing same day letters of notice of retrenchment to public officers, the Congress is consistent in its views that both Government and Chaps Restaurant Limited, should guard against the very appearance that the employer failed to take the welfare and interests of employees into consideration.”