The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) has lauded the work of frontline workers as they fight to manage the spread of Covid-19 and urged the public to “reduce the pressure” being placed on them and the healthcare system.
“CTUSAB takes this opportunity to salute all workers in the healthcare sector and the essential services on their commitment, and dedication to service, at a time when there is a call for a national response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As frontline workers working in a high-risk environment, there cannot be enough appreciation echoed for the personal sacrifices which are being made,” CTUSAB’s General Secretary, Dennis De Peiza said in a statement.
He explained that the declaration of the public health emergency imposed excessive responsibility on the shoulders of frontline workers who by the nature of their jobs are required to respond to the call of duty.
“It is ironic that those who are required to give the most at this time, are the very essential services workers who have traditionally been most strident in their calls for better treatment and greater recognition. Though this is a recognisable fact, any consideration to a review of existing terms and conditions of work would at this time be rendered secondary to the national need.
“CTUSAB however remains uncompromising in its stance that no effort must be spared in guaranteeing the availability of resources for the protection of these workers.
“CTUSAB appeals to the Barbadian public to reduce the pressure which is being placed on frontline workers and the healthcare system in the fight to manage the spread of the Coronavirus, by playing their part through practising social distancing, hand sanitising, respecting the imposed curfew and adhering to the instructions given by the authorities,” De Peiza stated.
He reminded the public that this was also a time to revisit “the best” of Barbadian values. “You are urged to care and show concern for the elderly, look out for the poor and dispossessed, be our brothers’ keeper and be truly a neighbour to your fellowman. These attributes have always been practised from time immemorial and can still be practised without doing violence to the requirements of social distancing.”
The Congress also welcomed the one hundred-member contingent of specialised nurses from Cuba, who arrived on island “to lend their skills and experience in this hour of need.”
He added: “Let us as a people unite in the fight against the spread of the Coronavirus, and further, join in collective prayer that the nation will overcome this challenge, sooner rather than later.” (PR/BT)
