More than 100 delegates are expected to gather on Sunday 17 and Monday 18 September, 2023 for the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union 56th Annual Delegates Conference.
This year’s Conference is being held under the theme “The Struggle Continues. Our Commitment and Dedication — The Watchwords.”
In light of the theme, ABWU President, Kem Riley, believes that this Conference will be a defining moment for the local labour movement.
Riley points to the many struggles that persist in the world of work but particularly highlights the recent attacks on the local Trade Union Movement by individuals in political office. Riley says, these attacks — if left unchecked — will have damming implications for the economic survival of Unions as well as the well-being of workers.
The ABWU President encourages workers to embrace a spirit of resilience and resolve as the Union redoubles its efforts to advance the cause of workers.
The Conference commences with an opening ceremony which will feature guest speaker, David Abdulah. Abdulah is a respected economist and social justice activist who has served as a leading figure in the Trade Union Movement in Trinidad and Tobago for almost 40 years.
Following the opening ceremony, the Conference will hear reports from the various workplaces that the Union represents and review several matters of business. Another important highlight of the gathering will be a series of presentations and discussions towards formulating a Severance Protection Bill for parliamentary consideration.
The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union was organized and registered in 1967. Today it is the largest trade union operating in the local private sector and is affiliated with key regional and international labour organizations.
