SSA pushes back on union claims

The Sanitation Service Authority on Monday pushed back on allegations by the National Union of Public Workers (NUPW) that the SSA has not been engaging workers on a number of pressing issues.

In a statement, SSA board chairman Ramon Alleyne said: “It would be erroneous to suggest the SSA’s management has not engaged the SSA workers on their issues.”

Last Friday, NUPW deputy General Secretary Wayne Walrond told Barbados TODAY repeated efforts to have meetings convened with SSA management have failed and that workers are becoming increasingly restive since their concerns have not been addressed.

These issues include a pay increase, the implementation of a promised medical insurance scheme, safety and health issues, and hiring practices at the authority.

But according to Alleyne, who was appointed back in September, the NUPW made no mention of a recent “engagement” involving management, the SSA board and workers which he said took place on November 23 where staff were asked to outline “outstanding issues so that the new Board of Management could implement and inform its upcoming plans”.

Alleyne went on to address the call from workers for a pay increase.

He said: “As it relates to increased wages the NUPW is well aware that the issue of wages for workers is directly related to negotiations between NUPW and central government in such circumstances.   Memoranda issued by the SSA will be of little value and would be usurping the established protocols between the NUPW and Government of Barbados.”

Walrond had argued that while workers firmly believe they should be properly compensated they are prepared to accept at least a Memorandum of Understanding from the Government that could guarantee a pay hike even without a date of implementation.

On the other matters, the SSA chairman confirmed that the group medical plan for workers had been approved- but the statement did not say when it would be implemented.

Alleyne also disclosed that the refurbishment of the authority’s recreational centre was ongoing and efforts have been taken improve other health and security matters especially as it related to COVID-19.

“Changes pursuant to that meeting were also implemented in respect of COVID-19 arrangements and protocols, the statement said.

The chairman said the SSA has requested a meeting with the union’s committee of management and is looking forward to continued dialogue. (SD)