BASSETERRE, St.Kitts (Friday 23rd October 2020) – The 81st Annual Conference of the St.Kitts-Nevis Trades & Labour Union (SKNT&LU), slated to take place on Sunday 25th October 2020 is expected to highlight the challenges and lessons associated with the COVID-19 pandemic linked with the importance and relevance of such a longstanding workers’ organization.

This year’s chosen theme is: ‘Inspiring Trade Union Growth in the New Normal’, and the venue is the Conference Room of the Solid Waste Management Corporation (SWMC) office located at Taylor’s Range in Basseterre, starting at 10:00am.

As customary, the two-fold event will see a public session followed by a business session (after complimentary lunch provided) that will include the election of a new executive body. 

All attendees are being asked to wear a face mask for the health and safety of all gathered in complying with the guidelines related to COVID-19. 

Furthermore, in keeping with general health protocols concerning the virus, physical distancing will be in place along with hand sanitization upon entry.

President Sydney Bridgewater is encouraging individuals who are part of the union membership to make it a priority to attend the upcoming forum, and is appealing to workers and others alike to get onboard also.

Speaking to the challenges experienced by the workforce due to COVID-19, he expressed that the Union remains vigilant and committed to provide assistance in representing the interest of the workers and is pleased that such an organization which speaks to the welfare of workers and can play a key role at this time.

Bridgewater went on to point out that the Union office-located at Masses House on Church Street in Basseterre-  has been particularly busy assisting workers with concerns and complaints brought on by the impact of COVID-19 to the labour market and other related areas.

He is urging workers to remain resilient despite the challenges.
“In the atmosphere of the new normal, let us focus on how resilient of a people we are. We have to challenge ourselves to look towards the future and in so doing mentally prepare yourself to set goals; one of which can be to be part of the St.Kitts-Nevis Trades & Labour Union.”
He pointed out that last year’s conference theme ‘All Hands On Deck in Securing Our Future’ is still relevant and is even applicable in the context of COVID-19 and the work of the Union.

“The collective effort of us all as a nation, including the competent authority is needed. We all have a part of play to ensure that the baton of progress is passed on for the continued safeguarding of the rights of workers. We are facing a very challenging period and so we must be vigilant in tackling the issues, and I wish to say that with God in our vessel we shall smile at the storm.”