The Antigua and Barbuda Workers Union (ABWU) has issued a strong warning to employers who infringe upon workers’ rights by deducting Social Security contributions from employees’ wages, yet neglect to remit those contributions to the Social Security Scheme as mandated by law.
In correspondence directed to the Antigua and Barbuda Employers’ Federation (ABEF) and the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA), the ABWU conveyed significant concern regarding the effects of this ongoing and concerning practice on workers.
Deputy General Secretary of ABWU, Chester Hughes, stated that withholding or delaying these contributions is not only unlawful but also morally unacceptable.
“It directly undermines the financial security and future wellbeing of diligent men and women, including single mothers who rightfully expect that their contributions are being paid and recorded,” he remarked.
The union cautioned that this type of disenfranchisement has enduring repercussions for workers, particularly those approaching retirement or who may need to depend on benefits due to illness, injury, or unemployment.
The ABWU is urging the ABEF and the ABHTA to take prompt action by encouraging its members to adhere to the laws governing Social Security contributions. It is also appealing to the Government and the Antigua and Barbuda Social Security Board to enhance enforcement measures and hold negligent employers accountable.
“This should encompass more rigorous inspection protocols, harsher penalties for non-compliance, and public disclosure of offending employers,” the letter specified.
The ABWU is prepared to collaborate with all pertinent stakeholders to ensure that this issue is addressed with the urgency and seriousness it warrants.
