The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) has written to the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA), urging all member hotels to respect workers’ legal rights to compensatory leave when scheduled off on public holidays.

This strong stance comes as the nation prepares to observe Labour Day, a holiday dedicated to honouring workers and their contributions.

In the strongly worded letter, the ABWU reminded the Association that the Industrial Court has already ruled on the matter of holiday entitlements in Ref No. 5 of 1988 (Sundry Workers v Antigua Catering Services). According to the ruling, any employee who is scheduled off on a public holiday is legally entitled to a compensatory day off with pay, a right enshrined in the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Code.

“This entitlement is not discretionary; it is a legal right,” stated Chester N. Hughes, Deputy General Secretary of the ABWU.

The ABWU further warned that it will actively challenge any hotel or other employer found to be in breach of this obligation. In such cases, the Union will seek a full audit of the establishment’s holiday pay and scheduling practices and will pursue retroactive payments for all affected employees.

“The Union remains committed to protecting the rights of workers within the hospitality industry and expects all member hotels to comply fully with the Labour Code and the confirmed interpretation by the Court,” the letter concluded.