The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) is set to strengthen the capacity of shop stewards within the hospitality sector through targeted training in grievance handling. The initiative emerged from key discussions during a recent meeting of the Union’s Hospitality Section held last week.

Deputy General Secretary, Chester Hughes, who participated in the meeting, noted that shop stewards are experiencing increased expectations from their colleagues and must be properly equipped to represent workers effectively. He emphasized that enhanced training will better position stewards to address workplace disputes professionally and confidently.

Occupational injury procedures were also a major focus of the meeting. Hughes advised members that employees should seek medical attention immediately following any workplace injury. He explained that in many instances, workers return home without seeing a doctor, only for injuries to manifest days later. Prompt medical evaluation, he stressed, creates a critical paper trail that supports claims for occupational injury and protects workers’ rights.

Concerns regarding tipping policies at some hotels also featured prominently in the discussions, along with proposed improvements to the ABHTA/ABWU Comprehensive Health Insurance Plan.

Hospitality Section Chair, Nathan Lewis, commended the level of engagement. “I think the participation was good. I like that everybody came out to dialogue in a spirit of togetherness,” he said.

The ABWU remains committed to empowering its shop stewards and ensuring that hospitality workers are well represented and protected throughout the industry.