ABWU General Secretary Senator David Massiah

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The Leadership and Executive Committee of the United Progressive Party (UPP) condemn the sustained attacks on the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union by Prime Minister Gaston Browne.

The most recent assault – his second clear attempt at the despicable act called “union busting” – goes against the grain of decency, respect for workers, and statesmanship expected of the head of a party whose roots are grounded in the Labour Movement.

In a continued show of disrespect, PM Browne used the occasion of Labour Day – a day that has always been held sacred for workers – to lambast the Workers’ Union in a naked attempt to undermine the confidence of its membership.

His other efforts to do so, including base and baseless allegations about the illegal use of dues and charges of poor representation, actually do more to discredit himself as a leader than hurt the Union.

After all, the Workers’ Union has a long record of achievements on which to stand, which is more than the Browne Administration can say.

However, this latest move – encouraging hotel workers to establish their own union – coupled with the inducement of Crown land for housing hits a new low.

That the prime minister– for reasons of malice and “bad mind” – would
blatantly hijack from the Workers’ Union and the Antigua Barbuda Hotels & Tourist Association their plans for a housing project are despicable and reeks of political quid pro quo.

If the prime minister had any sense of shame, he would be ashamed.

The United Progressive Party reminds the hotel workers of their treatment by Prime Minister Browne and his Administration during the COVID-19 pandemic; of the disappointing decision to set the minimum wage at a mere $9, while knowing their intention to increase the ABST and other taxes; and, most telling, their mistreatment of the former LIAT (1974) workers, who are still languishing for their severance and other benefits more than four years after they were sent home.

Be aware and beware!
The UPP assures the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union of its unwavering support for the organization, its membership, and its continued service to all workers and their families, and that it continues to stand in solidarity against the tyranny and manipulations of Prime Minister Gaston Browne.