The Antigua and Barbuda Trades and Labour Union (AT&LU) marked its 86th Annual Delegates’ Conference with a day of prayers, speeches, music and solidarity messages, as union leaders and political figures urged members to remain united in the face of global economic and social pressures.
The conference opened with the national anthem and an invocation, setting a solemn tone as tributes were paid to the union’s founding members. Delegates were reminded that the AT&LU, established in 1939, had been instrumental in winning the vote, improving wages, and laying the foundations for Antigua and Barbuda’s independence.
Featured speaker Carl Christopher, drawing on the legacy of past labour leaders, warned against division within the movement. “Division is death, unity is life,” he told delegates, linking the union’s fortunes closely with those of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party. He praised current government initiatives on housing, infrastructure and education, while urging workers not to forget the struggles of the past.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne, in a written message from New York where he was attending the United Nations General Assembly, connected the AT&LU’s fight against colonialism with today’s challenges of climate change and rising living costs. He pledged his continued support for workers’ rights and decent standards of living.
Tourism Minister Charles Max Fernandez, in his own address, highlighted the disruptive impact of artificial intelligence and automation, calling for retraining, social protection and inclusive policies to ensure no worker is left behind.
Union President Conway Vernon Connolly used his presidential remarks to confront violations still faced by employees in Antigua and Barbuda, including non-payment of minimum wages, lack of pension contributions, and cases of harassment and human trafficking. He announced that the AT&LU is exploring the creation of a credit union for its members, and emphasised the urgent need to strengthen Social Security through investment to safeguard future pensions.
Messages of solidarity poured in from regional and international organisations, including the Antigua and Barbuda Workers Union, the Union of Teachers, the International Labour Organization, and trade union federations across the Caribbean. All echoed the importance of unity, resilience and adaptation to a changing global economy.
The day was punctuated by cultural performances, including choir renditions, steel pan music, and the traditional singing of “Solidarity Forever.” Delegates also witnessed commendations presented to members for outstanding service.
Closing the day’s proceedings, the union leadership reaffirmed its commitment to defending workers’ rights and reminded delegates of the enduring motto: _“The unity of labour is the salvation of our country.”_