Agard proud of NUPW’s impact over 80 years

By Rawle Toney

The National Union of Public Workers (NUPW) is commemorating its 80th anniversary, with President Kimberly Agard highlighting the significant contributions made by the Trade Union since its establishment on January 22, 1944.

Agard spoke during the Founders Day Service at Calvary Moravian Church on Sunday, where she and other NUPW members gathered to celebrate the second oldest Trade Union in Barbados.

“Eighty years is not 80 days, not 80 weeks, not 80 hours. Throughout those 80 years, we have shown our resilience. We have contributed positively,” Agard said.

She went on to express her pride in leading an organisation twice her age, acknowledging the support of an exceptional team.

Agard said the union has planned a year of activities, adding that “this year is expected to highlight the successes of the NUPW throughout the year. We would have, as I said before, contributed through our strategies, through our policy, and negotiations.”

Meanwhile, Pastor Adrian Smith, in his sermon, shared words of encouragement with the assembled NUPW members, urging them to recognise the significance of their calling and the crucial role they play in the lives of the common man in Barbados.

Pastor Smith also led a special prayer for the NUPW, seeking blessings for them to persist in their dedicated service to the workers under their care in Barbados.

The NUPW was founded just three years after the Barbados Workers Union, and was officially registered as a Trade Union on October 15, 1964. It was originally known as the Civic Service Association until its name was changed to NUPW in October 1971, reflecting the evolving composition of its membership.

The union’s objectives include achieving full unionisation of government workers, effectively negotiating on behalf of all members, and enhancing and safeguarding the pay and conditions of employment for its members.

Additionally, the NUPW aims to foster positive interpersonal relationships between members and employers, promote Trade Unionism and Credit Unionism, and contribute to the overall well-being of its members economically, socially, and culturally.

(RT)