Minister of Labour and Public Service Pia Glover-Rolle has responded to recent comments from Obie Ferguson, President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), who warned that a mass strike could be on the horizon if ongoing labor disputes are not resolved.
Glover-Rolle expressed her disappointment but not surprise at Ferguson's remarks, which came just days after what she described as a "positive meeting" between the Department of Labour and representatives of local trade unions.
According to Glover-Rolle, the meeting, held last week, addressed a range of issues that had been raised by union leaders, with some action items already progressing at the Ministry of Finance.
"I have been made aware of remarks made by TUC President, Obie Ferguson, regarding his opinion of current labour relations," Glover-Rolle said. "These comments have emerged just days after a positive meeting with local trade unions, which included open and productive discussions. We remain committed to maintaining harmonious labour relations and working collaboratively with the unions for the benefit of Bahamian workers."
Glover-Rolle noted that the quarterly meeting, which took place at the Department of Labour, was attended by all major trade unions, including the TUC, which was represented by Chairman Fred Munnings.
She pointed out that the unions themselves set the agenda for the meeting, and a number of key issues were discussed thoroughly.
"Several action items have already moved forward, and we have committed to resolving additional concerns in the first quarter of 2025," she continued. "We agreed to review our progress at the next quarterly meeting in March of 2025."
While the meeting ended on a positive note, Glover-Rolle expressed concern over the remarks made by Ferguson, who in recent months has made several statements suggesting that the government is not doing enough to address workers' issues. In contrast, the Minister emphasized the government's ongoing efforts to engage in open dialogue with union representatives.
"I am disappointed, but not surprised, by these comments from Mr. Ferguson," Glover-Rolle stated. "However, we remain focused on our work and committed to addressing workers' needs in a manner that fosters collaboration and mutual respect."
The Minister also addressed Ferguson’s recent comments regarding the issuance of 14 strike certificates to local unions, a topic that has garnered significant attention.
Glover-Rolle confirmed that the strike certificates had been issued by her ministry and emphasized that such certificates are a normal part of the labor environment in The Bahamas.
"Strike certificates are issued as part of the process, and we welcome them as a healthy component of our labour environment," Glover-Rolle explained. "While strikes have not occurred following the issuance of such certificates in the past, we continue to support unions in exercising their constitutional rights, all while striving to avoid strikes and maintain peaceful labor relations."
Glover-Rolle called for continued dialogue between the government and union leaders. "It is critical that discussions are held in good faith," she urged. "We ask that union leaders maintain the current levels of open communication, as this consistency is key to achieving our ambitious labor agenda. We remain committed to working together with the unions to protect, compensate, and empower Bahamian workers."
Comments