Union official calls for more support for women in the workplace

By Aabigayle McIntosh

There is a strong call for urgent action to address the critical issues of maternity, menopause, and menstruation, which affect the health and productivity of some women in the workplace.

Hazel Luke, First Vice President of the Antigua and Barbuda Workers Union (ABWU), made this plea while addressing union members and others at Monday’s Labour Day Rally.

Luke emphasized that while Antigua and Barbuda have made gains in several areas, the Labour Code should be updated to address these urgent issues.

She pointed out that maternity benefits are not up to par with those in more progressive countries, despite the recent one-week increase in maternity leave after over 40 years of it being fixed at 13 weeks.

“Mothers returning to work face conditions that do not provide space for lactating mothers or policies that help ease the stress of balancing work with family needs,” Luke said. “Returning to work when the child is just six weeks old, or even after 13 weeks, is a physiological challenge for women who may not have extended family support or the means to hire a babysitter. Taking a child to daycare can also infringe on the child’s mental development. Mothers need more time at home.”

She criticized the authorities for dismissing the contributions of women to the country’s development by not addressing these issues, which are crucial to women’s well-being.

Luke mentioned that the union is aware of situations where women call in sick due to menstrual-related issues, yet they face reprimands because they cannot perform their duties effectively during that time.

“The societal norms and misconceptions that lead to stigma are what prevent the proper installation of facilities and provision of products to support the physical well-being of female employees,” she said.

“Menopause is a natural occurrence, yet some women experience its symptoms more intensely than others. So, why should women feel alienated because of a biological function?” she asked. Luke urged that investigations into the needs of female employees be conducted to create a more harmonious working environment.

These remarks underscore the need for more progressive workplace policies that support women’s health and well-being.