NUPW President calls for renewed advocacy amidst rising worker challenges

President of the National Union of Public Workers (NUPW) Kimberley Agard, has called for intensified advocacy to protect the rights of Barbadian workers, citing growing challenges and attempts to undermine union influence. Her remarks came during the opening of the union’s 80th Annual General Conference on Thursday.

Agard strongly refuted suggestions that unions are outdated, emphasising their vital role in ensuring fairness and equity in the workplace. “Some would have us believe that unions are relics of the past, that they are no longer necessary. Let us be clear, without strong unions workers suffer; without strong unions fairness and equity are eroded,” she insisted.

She expressed concerns about the increasing marginalisation of union negotiations and the erosion of organised labour’s influence in decision-making. 

“Here in Barbados we are seeing increasing attempts to sideline union negotiations, to weaken our influence in decision making…the cost of living is rising, yet there are those who believe that wages should remain stagnant. Contract work and job insecurity have become the norm, these are battles that we cannot afford to lose,” Agard stated.

Outlining the NUPW’s priorities for upcoming negotiations, Agard emphasised the need to safeguard worker protections, including fair wage increases, improved allowances, and a balanced remote work policy.

 “Stability is important, but now, we must shift our focus to growth. We now need to set new priorities. Negotiating a new salary accord and improved conditions; a fair wage increase that reflects inflation and the cost of living; a revision of outdated allowances to better align with modern economic demands; a structured remote work policy recognising the need for flexibility where applicable; enhanced pension security and post-retirement benefits for those who have served their country faithfully; performance development and career advancements; increase scholarship and training opportunities and leadership programmes for public officers,” she detailed.

Agard also highlighted several concerns including unclear promotion pathways, the prevalence of temporary contracts, and diminishing job security. She also stressed the importance of addressing mental health and workplace wellness.

“Colleagues, the progress we have made must not be undone. Stability must not be disrupted at this critical time. We are entering a new phase of negotiations and the NUPW must remain strong, unified and focused,” she concluded. (SB)