Workers across the transport sector are demanding greater transparency in promotions, an end to unilateral job reassignments, and urgent action to address workplace safety concerns.
These issues dominated discussions during a recent meeting of the Transport Section of the Antigua and Barbuda Workers' Union (ABWU), where shop stewards and members from several workplaces highlighted a number of challenges affecting employees throughout the sector.
One of the major concerns raised was the lack of clearly documented pathways for employees seeking to advance through the various levels within their job category. Employees at one workplace noted that management had previously agreed to provide the criteria for progression but had failed to do so within the agreed timeframe.
ABWU General Secretary, David Massiah, said the union will issue the company a new deadline to produce the information.
The matter, however, was not isolated. Further discussions revealed that uncertainty surrounding career progression was a common concern across several workplaces.
Another troubling issue was the unilateral creation of new job categories and the reassignment of employees to different roles without consultation with the union. Representatives from at least three workplaces reported multiple instances where employers introduced new classifications or altered employees' duties without engaging the union.
Some workers further alleged that they had been transferred into positions outside the bargaining unit, raising concerns that the moves were intended to weaken the union's membership and bargaining strength.
Massiah said such allegations must be thoroughly investigated to determine whether they amount to attempts at union-busting.
ABWU President, Kem Riley, reinforced the union's position.
"Any new category of worker must first be discussed with the union," Riley said, noting that the collective bargaining agreement provides clear provisions for consultation on matters affecting bargaining unit employees.
Workers also highlighted what they described as unfair treatment of long-tenured employees at one organisation. According to the workers, experienced staff have repeatedly been required to train newly hired employees, only to see those new employees promoted while the long-serving workers who provided the training remain at the same grade.
Massiah encouraged workers to report such issues as they arise, rather than waiting for section meetings.
"We all have a role to play in resisting these practices," he told members. "The union can only act on issues that are brought to our attention in a timely manner."
Occupational health and safety was another major concern raised during the meeting. Workers at one institution reported that aging equipment continues to pose safety risks despite repeated complaints to management.
"There is an immediate need for us to have an engagement with that company," Massiah said. "Workers need to have proper equipment to work with. Safe working conditions are not optional."
The Transport Section meeting included workers from the Antigua Port Authority, Antigua Barbuda Airport Authority, Antigua Barbuda Transport Board and WIOC. The meeting forms part of the ABWU's preparations for its 59th Annual Delegates' Conference, scheduled for September.
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