Basseterre, St. Kitts, October 22, 2015 (SKNIS): The number of labour officers in St. Kitts is expected to increase as Government works to promote harmonious relations between employees and employer,s and enhance a safe occupational environment.
“We want to be able to go to every single place of employment,” explained Premier of Nevis and the Federal Minister of Labour, Honourable Vance Amory, as he shared matters relating to his portfolio on the radio programme “Working for You” on Wednesday (October 21).
He added that the visits will allow the officials to “see what the conditions are, ensure that the employers are treating the workers well, and that the employees are giving their labour in a way which they should do and it is a fair work for a fair day’s pay.”
Currently, labour officers do make spot inspections to assess occupational safety and health in various businesses. They also provide training and education sessions for management and staff. Workers at the Timothy Beach Resort at Frigate Bay were recently engaged in three separate sessions. On September 22 and 29, employees were provided details on the “Labour Laws” and “How to Maintain Your Job.” This was followed by an October 07 training for managers entitled “Helping Management to Provide Creative Ways in Assisting the Staff to be More Productive.”
The services of the Labour Department have also been engaged to conduct training at the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB). On October 16, a session was held on the “Protection of Employment.” This was followed by training on “Holiday with Pay” on October 20. The final session with ECCB staff is scheduled for next Tuesday (October 27) on the “Protection of Wages Act.”
The Labour Minister reminded that the department’s role is to remain neutral during any dispute.
“We are not a trade union,” Senior Minister Amory stated. “We are not there to take the side of either the employer or the employee. We act in accordance with the law,” he stressed.