The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) has successfully negotiated two new Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) with the American University of Antigua (AUA), covering January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2026.
The agreements bring significant financial and non-financial improvements for line and security employees.
Under the new terms, employees will see a 2.5% increase in thrift fund contributions in the first year, a measure agreed upon in place of a wage increase. In the second and third years, workers will receive 3% annual salary increases, ensuring steady growth in compensation.
The CBAs also include enhanced overtime provisions, allowing staff to earn up to four times their hourly rate in certain circumstances. Additional improvements were made to call-out, shift, meal, and graveyard allowances, offering further recognition for demanding schedules.
Non-financial benefits were also addressed. Paternity leave has been extended from five to seven days, providing workers with more support for family responsibilities. Administrative staff will now also receive official uniforms.
ABWU President Kem Riley praised the agreements as a meaningful improvement over previous contracts.
“These agreements are testament to the resilience of the workers and the collective strength of their Union,” Riley said. “While the process was not without challenges, the end result places workers in a much better position.”
Riley also commended shop stewards and the works committee for their active participation in negotiations, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving positive outcomes for employees.
The ABWU reaffirmed its commitment to protecting workers’ rights and advancing fair labour practices across Antigua and Barbuda, highlighting the agreements as a step forward in strengthening worker representation in the country.
Why are these bargaining agreements made public? Really what’s the purpose. Isn’t that what the Union gets paid dues for in any case?