The Tribune

MINISTER of Labour Shane Gibson affirmed the government's commitment to legislative reform on longstanding labour issues affecting both the public and private sectors as unionists celebrated labour milestones this weekend.

Union leaders forecast a proactive first year towards the resolution of expired industrial agreements and other concerns after a stalled five year term.

At a closing church service in Grand Bahama, National Congress of Trade Unions of the Bahamas president Jennifer Isaacs-Dotson yesterday underscored the importance of consistent social dialogue with the government to renew negotiations for expired industrial agreements in various sectors.

"Anything that affects the country as a whole the trade union should be included," Mrs Isaacs-Dotson said. "Whatever happens in the country affects workers and it affects labour."

In his national address, Mr Gibson acknowledged both unionised and non-unionised workers for their equal contributions towards nation building and pledged to be a catalyst for solidarity among the government and the union.

"Consultation and Social Dialogue with and among the social partners will be my mantra," Mr Gibson said.

"In this regard, my Ministry has already taken steps to further institutionalise tripartite consultation, and engage the social partners in serious discussions on the issues of job growth and the reduction of unemployment, Labour Legislation, job protection, and productivity."

The Ministry of Labour will resume efforts to erect a Productivity Council - populated by representatives from the Government, unions, and respective organisations - to increase public awareness campaigns and oversee development procedures, he added.

Mr Gibson expressed his gratitude for the national and party support of his appointment to the ministerial post and encouraged all workers to generate industrial peace and fair play.

"We will correct the shortcomings that prevent the Industrial Tribunal from functioning with the proposed degree of effectiveness," Mr Gibson said.

"In this regard, we will appropriately amend the Employment Act, 2001, Industrial Relations Act; the Health and Safety at Work Act; and Minimum Wages Act."

Mr Gibson said legislative plans also include strengthening laws governing the management of pension funds to address "antiquated and outdated" laws governing its administration.

Acknowledging the need for training and retraining opportunities in both private and public sectors, Mr Gibson said the government will provide a parcel of land for the construction of a Labour College.

The government will revise legislation to satisfy provisions set out by the International Labour Organisation concerning freedom of association and collective bargaining, he said. Additionally, the Government will clarify the law regarding break periods and holiday pay for shift workers.

Mrs Isaacs-Dotson yesterday expressed confidence in the government's mandate as labour negotiations and tribunals are set to begin.

"Most of the unions are meeting with (Mr Gibson) individually and the relevant ministers individually to see how we can get matters resolved," she said.

"This is a big difference from the last government that would not even entertain some of us. We at least see an attempt at communication and attempt at social dialogue, to us that is a start.

"The (commemoration) of Sir Randol Fawkes is a step in the right direction," she added.

"We want to be included in the discussions moving our country forward. Even crime, it's not just the government's problem. We need to sit down and come together with a solution."