BWU, Preconco reach agreement on health and safety issues; pay dispute unresolved

Industrial action by workers of concrete fabricator Preconco over health and safety concerns has led to commitments from the company to address key grievances, including compensation for safety equipment and government-led reviews of machinery.

The Barbados Workers’ Union (BWU) and construction magnate Mark Maloney’s flagship firm reached an agreement after more than 40 employees walked off the job on March 25, citing dissatisfaction with working conditions, including inadequate wages and significant health and safety concerns.

Preconco had issued a statement refuting the claims made by the union, stating that these issues had not been previously brought to their attention and were not part of ongoing discussions between the BWU and the company.

In a statement on Tuesday to Barbados TODAY, BWU Deputy General Secretary Dwaine Paul provided an update on the ongoing negotiations with the company, which have been facilitated by several meetings chaired by the Chief Labour Officer.

He confirmed that positive results had been achieved, particularly in addressing health and safety concerns raised by workers.

“Arising from those meetings, there’s a commitment from the company to compensate staff for safety shoes not provided,” he said. “In addition, the health and safety section of the Ministry of Labour will conduct reviews of key pieces of equipment identified by the staff to have challenges.”

Negotiations are also underway on the contentious issue of salaries and wages.

“The parties will join the parties during the course of this week [and] will continue negotiations towards resolving the matter of salaries and wages,” Paul confirmed.

“In addition, dates will also be set to address the other issues raised by staff. The Barbados Workers’ Union is committed to ensuring that all the matters tabled by staff are adequately addressed in the shortest possible time.”

The union leader urged the public to stand in solidarity with the workers as negotiations continue.

“We look forward [to] and encourage the public and the members to continue to support the workers of Preconco as these discussions continue,” he concluded.

When contacted for a statement on the ongoing negotiations, Preconco’s management declined to comment.

(LG)