ABWU Criticises Government’s Payment Approach to Former LIAT 1974 Workers

The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) has sharply criticised the government’s approach to compensating former employees of LIAT 1974 Ltd., describing recent payment offers as “sporadic and fragmented” and insufficient to meet workers’ lawful severance entitlements.

In a statement responding to comments by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, the Union acknowledged that any financial assistance may offer short-term relief but stressed that severance payments are a legal right, not an act of charity.

The ABWU reiterated that severance is earned through years of service and must not be replaced by what the administration has labelled “compassionate payments.” According to the Union, the government’s refusal to fully honour severance obligations has resulted in prolonged hardship for hundreds of displaced workers and their families.

The Union further argued that the piecemeal release of funds highlights a lack of genuine commitment to resolving the issue. It suggested that a more credible approach would have involved settling smaller severance claims first while establishing a clear and transparent plan to address larger outstanding balances over time.

The ABWU also disputed claims of ongoing dialogue, stating that it has been excluded from meaningful engagement on the matter for several years despite being the legally recognised representative of the affected workers. The Union described this exclusion as unacceptable, particularly given the administration’s stated pro-labour stance.

Emphasising that former LIAT workers are not seeking handouts, the ABWU said they are calling for fairness, dignity, and respect. The Union renewed its appeal for the government to return to constructive negotiations aimed at delivering a just and humane resolution to the long-standing severance dispute.

According to the ABWU, failure to do so will only continue the unnecessary suffering endured by former LIAT employees who remain without full compensation for their service.