ABWU Negotiates New Workplace Support Addressing Menstruation, Maternity Menopause and Andropause

The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union is leading the way in advancing workplace provisions that address the impact of Menstruation, Maternity, Menopause and Andropause on workers.

A new article, tabled in a recent Collective Bargaining Agreement brings a gender-sensitive approach to workplace health and safety, ensuring that women’s specific biological and reproductive health needs are properly recognised and supported at work, while recognising challenges some men experience as they age.

Employees at Cricket West Indies will be the first to benefit from the new article, dubbed “the 3Ms and Andropause,” which seeks to encourage understanding and improve accommodations for employees experiencing challenges associated with the 3Ms and andropause.

Specifically, the provision affords employees three Low Days annually, not included in their regular allotment of sick days. These low days may be taken in ½ days when an employee is challenged with symptoms associated with the 3Ms and andropause, and has been medically assessed.

Additionally, employees will also have access to the company’s Wellness Facility as part of their recovery support, before returning to work.

Industrial Relations Consultant at the ABWU, Hazel Luke, who negotiated the agreement described the new article as an important achievement that will pave the way for expanded support and accommodations. Luke commended Cricket West Indies for its thoughtful consideration of the new provision.

“Cricket West Indies has always been amenable to making changes where it is possible. They are a reasonable and engaged partner, so we will always secure what’s best for both the employees and the company,” Luke said.

While acknowledging the significance of this achievement, Luke is hopeful that similar provisions will form part of future collective agreements with other workplaces.

“Our articles on the 3Ms and Andropause  have been in development for several months with assistance from our affiliate, Union Network International, and with input from ABWU Women’s Council and our annual Women’s Conference,” Luke explained. “Our goal is to tailor this article to suit each work environment by dialoguing with our shop stewards and works committees.”

ABWU General Secretary, David Massiah, said the Union will continue to evolve to meet the needs of its members. He also affirmed the Union’s commitment to fostering strong partnerships with employers to improve the lives of workers.

“We are not supposed to be adversarial but working together in the common interest of advancing not only the organisation, but the employees that work within it.” Massiah said.

Cricket West Indies CEO, Chris Dehring spoke highly of the negotiations with the Union, describing it as “refreshing.”  Dehring said his team is looking forward to strengthening its partnership with the union and its shop stewards.”

The new collective Bargaining Agreement covers the period 1 January 2026 – 31 December 2028.