Choose a plan from below, subscribe, and get access to our member benefits!
Monthly plan
Yearly plan
Member Benefits Include
Collective Representation
Legal Representation
Grievance Resolution
Professional Development
Health and Safety Advocacy
Social and Networking Events
Governmental Advocacy
Job Security and Seniority Advocacy
Information and Resources
Open Door Policy
Workers Representation on a National Scale
Collective Bargaining Representation
The union negotiates collective bargaining agreements on behalf of its members to ensure fair wages, benefits, and working conditions. Shop stewards act as liaisons between the workers and the union leadership.
Legal Representation
Members have access to legal assistance for workplace-related issues, such as unfair dismissal, discrimination, and safety violations.
Grievance Resolution
The SKNT&LU supports members in resolving workplace grievances, advocating for fair treatment and due process.
Professional Development
The union provides opportunities for members to enhance their skills and career prospects through various educational programs.
Health and Safety Advocacy
A key focus is on promoting safer work environments and compliance with health and safety standards.
Social and Networking Events
Members can participate in events that foster community and provide networking opportunities.
Governmental Advocacy
The union lobbies for policies and legislation that protect and advance workers' rights and interests.
Job Security and Seniority Advocacy
Efforts are made to ensure fair practices regarding layoffs, promotions, and other job changes, often prioritizing seniority and performance.
Information and Resources
The union keeps members informed about labor rights, industry developments, and union activities through various communication channels.
Open Door Policy
Members have direct access to union representatives for guidance and support, with non-members also encouraged to engage with the union.
Workers Representation on a National Scale
The SKNT&LU represents workers at the national level on various committees, influencing policies and regulations affecting labor and employment.
Basseterre, St. Kitts, April 17, 2024 (SKNIS): For the first time in its history, the 29th Edition of the Agriculture Open Day in St. Kitts slated for Thursday, April 25, and Friday, April 26, 2024, at the Royal Basseterre Valley National Park, will include veterinary (VET) services, introducing a new dimension to the event focusing on animal welfare and public health.
“The St. Kitts and Nevis Veterinary Board will be adding another dimension to the Agriculture Open Day and this is really focusing on animal welfare. In particular, we will be focusing on dogs and how taking care of them can affect human health, as well as food safety and security,” said Dr. Tracey Challenger, Agriculture Development Advisor, on the April 17 edition of InFocus.
Dr. Challenger stated that the Veterinary Board will provide practical demonstrations of veterinary medicine, including essential services like vaccinations, deworming, and dog licensing.
Highlighting the importance of disease prevention, Dr. Challenger referenced the World Health Organization’s ‘One Health’ initiative – an initiative that advocates for an integrated approach to ensuring the well-being of people, animals, and the environment, encouraging cross-sectoral and interdisciplinary collaboration for sustainable solutions.
“Of the diseases that affect humans, 60 percent of them are zoonotic. So they come from either livestock or companion animals,” she explained. “We have chosen to zero in on zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted to humans through dogs, such as leptospirosis, hookworms, and tapeworms. As time goes on, we will add to the list of zoonotic diseases.”
Dr. Challenger also announced that the first 50 vaccinations – 25 each on Thursday and Friday – will be offered free of charge to persons visiting the veterinary section with their dogs at the Agriculture Open Day. One vaccine will be administered per dog owner. Subsequent vaccinations will be available at a reduced cost of EC $30, compared to the regular price of EC $55.
Chaira Flanders, Head of Media and Communications at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Marine Resources, stressed that a controlled environment will be maintained for the animals receiving VET services.
“There is going to be a specific entrance for persons to use when entering the fair specifically to get the treatment that is being offered by the VET Board,” she stated. Flanders also requested that owners ensure large dogs are leashed to maintain safety and order during the event.
The 29th Edition of the Agriculture Open Day will be held under the theme: “Securing Our Future Through Sustainable Agriculture by 2025 and Beyond.”
Basseterre, St. Kitts, April 17, 2024 (SKNIS): The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis announces with deep sorrow, the passing of Alphonso “Bridges” Bridgewater, a beloved member of our community. In recognition of his significant contributions and legacy, an Official Funeral will be held to honour his life and achievements.
The Official Funeral for Alphonso “Bridges” Bridgewater is scheduled to take place on Friday, April 26, 2024. Viewing and tributes begin at 12:45 p.m. and the Official Service will commence at 2:00 p.m., at the St. Georges Anglican Church, located on Cayon Street, Basseterre, St. Kitts.
Mr. Bridgewater was known for his unwavering dedication to the betterment of our nation and his tireless efforts in serving our community. His leadership, compassion, and commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him.
The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Alphonso “Bridges” Bridgewater during this difficult time. We recognize and honor his remarkable life and express our gratitude for his invaluable contributions to our society.
Members of the public are invited to join us in paying tribute to the life and legacy of Alphonso “Bridges” Bridgewater at his Official Funeral, to commemorate his memory and celebrate his lasting impact on our nation.
Basseterre, St. Kitts, April 17, 2024 (SKNIS): The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, in partnership with the Taiwan Technical Mission, launched an innovative project aimed at promoting sustainable development and gender inclusivity. The ceremony marking the commencement of the project was held at the CUNA Conference Center on Tuesday, April 16, 2024.
Building on the successes of the 2021 Women Employment Entrepreneurship and Financial Inclusion Project, this new initiative provides vocational training in traditionally male-dominated fields, such as construction. It also broadens its scope by encouraging male participation. This holistic approach is designed to foster a more inclusive workforce in the Federation.
“We want to be inclusive in our efforts and we can’t talk about advancing women and leave the men behind. That is why we thought about this project in terms of how we could expand it to not only focus on women, but also empower men who will be interested,” explained the Honourable Isalean Phillip, Minister of Social Development and Gender Affairs. “It is also an opportunity for women to get training and skills in sectors and jobs that are traditionally male-dominated.”
In addition to gender inclusivity, the project integrates youth involvement through a collaboration with Junior Achievers, a business development programme implemented locally in high schools since 2004.
“Junior Achievers as a regional organisation also approached us to partner, and we are incorporating a junior achievers cohort segment as part of this project, where we are not only targeting women and men, but also the youth,” Minister Phillip added.
His Excellency Michael Lin, Resident Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to St. Kitts and Nevis, highlighted the broader societal impact of the project:
“We all recognise that in St. Kitts and Nevis, more than 50 percent of households are by single parents. When women are empowered, they are not only uplifting themselves, but also their families, their community and moreover the whole society,” said Ambassador Lin. “This is a reason why our two governments decided to implement this project and raise more resources… that will benefit more families in St. Kitts and Nevis. Three years later, we are witnessing the fruitful achievement of this project.”
BASSETERRE, St.Kitts (Monday 15th April 2024)- The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force has confirmed a shooting incident that took place at the Fisheries Complex in Newtown earlier today, Monday, April 15th, 2024, between 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM.
According to details provided by a spokesperson at the Police Public Relations Department, one individual identified as Shaquille Chumney, has been confirmed deceased as a result of the incident. Additionally, another person, Neal Nicholls, sustained injuries to one of his legs during the shooting.
The circumstances surrounding the incident are currently under investigation, and further details are expected to be provided in a formal media release by the authorities.
(MONDAY 15TH APRIL 2024)– Constituency Eight of the St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP) is thrilled to announce results of the recent elections for the positions of Chairperson and two Vice-Chairpersons held on Sunday, April 14, 2024, at the St. Peter’s Anglican Church Hall, aimed at putting together a ‘Red and Ready’ dynamic executive committee to lead the constituency in its new term.
With 95 dedicated voters combined from all four (4) districts participating namely Cayon, Keys, Conaree and St.Peter’s, the constituency has demonstrated its commitment to shaping the future of the party -led by Prime Minister and Parliamentary Representative Dr. Terrance Drew- and our community.
The results of the elections are as follows: Chairperson Ms. Avonelle Martin of St.Peter’s (59 votes) and Vice Chairpersons: Mr.Doan Ferdinand of Conaree (58 votes) and Mr.Shannoid Bass of St.Peter’s (45 votes).
During the elections, the constituency voting body passed a motion to include the three District Heads as floor members on the executive committee in the persons of Ms. Kelvina Salters (Cayon), Mr.Dominic Stevens (Keys) and Mr. Gavin Williams (St.Peters) while Ms. Valencia Martin (Conaree) was elected as an additional floor member, further enhancing representation and diversity within the constituency’s leadership.
The positions of Public Relations Officer, Secretary and Treasurer are appointed roles to be filled within one month of the elections.
BASSETERRE, St.Kitts (Thursday 11th April 2024)- Event coordinator of the67th annual Basil Henderson Easter Monday Aquatic Sports Meet Winston ‘Zack’ Nisbett says days after positive comments are still coming in for the annual event held on Monday 1st April 2024 at the Ferry Terminal in Basseterre under the theme ‘Building Community Spirit Through Sports.’
Event Coordinator Winston ‘Zack’ Nisbett (right) presenting a hair cutting tool set to one of the winners of boxing competition 24-year-old Jordan Hewlett (Spokesman Snap)Section of spectators gathered for the 2024 Basil Henderson Easter Monday Aquatic Sports Meet on Monday 1st April (Spokesman Snap)
“I am really thrilled with the positive feedback and support we’ve received for this year’s event and continue to receive. I sincerely express gratitude for the overwhelming support and participation. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. Just today a visitor stopped just to say how good he thought the event was,” Nisbett said during an interview with this media house on Thursday 11th April 2024.
“Unfortunately the skipping and bun eating competitions were unable to take place due to unforeseen circumstances but definitely next year those events will take place in a more exciting feature which the public is sure to enjoy. However, as usual, the crowd really enjoyed the swimming competitions and the greasy pole contest,” he added.
One highlight of the event was the vertical money-fetch pole, erected along the Bay Front shoreline which garnered significant support from the public who stood by cheering on the participants in getting the total prize to $500; $350 of which was contributed by Scenic Railway and the additional $150 contributed by spectators.
13-year-old Marque Greene emerged victorious on his third attempt, showcasing both skill and determination.
Another crowd favorite was the greasy pole ham-fetch competition, whereby Felix Jones once again demonstrated his prowess by successfully climbing the horizontal pole and claiming victory for a third year in a row as one of the winners.
In addition to the participants and spectators, Nisbett expressed appreciation for the support of the police, EMS service, Red Cross and other essential service providers whose efforts ensured the safety and smooth running of the event, noting that their dedication and professionalism were integral to its success.
Furthermore, Nisbett extended gratitude to sponsors and partners, whose unwavering support exemplifies the spirit of community collaboration and solidarity, including TDC, SKELEC, Courts, Caribelle Batik, ZIZ, St. Kitts Yacht Club and Harpers, whose generous contributions played a crucial role in bringing the event to fruition. Their unwavering support exemplifies the spirit of community collaboration and solidarity.
Nisbett expressed appreciation for the presence of sponsor representatives Managing Director Mark Wilkin of Carib Brewery (St.Kitts-Nevis Ltd.) as well as Sales and Marketing Manager Andre Amritt, highlighting the importance of community support in making the event possible. He also expressed the view that their attendance served as a testament to the strong partnership between sponsors and organizers in promoting local traditions and culture.
Looking ahead, Nisbett announced plans to treat some of the successful participants to a sponsored Scenic Railway outing on Friday 12th April.
Of note, participants and organizers alike are already looking forward to next year’s event, which promises to be even bigger and better than ever before.
In this world, there exists countless wonders yet to be discovered as well countless moments of awe yet to be experienced presently and for generations to come. One of the most awe-inspiring moments we get to witness as human beings-those of us who are physically able to do so- is looking up at the stars and wondering about the universe through thought-provoking yet intriguing internal questions or engaging conversations which continuously inspire and amaze us.
Although we here in Eastern Caribbean region and likewise other territories did not experience the recent total solar eclipse On Monday 8th April 8th, 2024, many of us were glued to our mobile devices, computer and television screens in our quest via live streaming to experience what millions of people mainly across North America (dubbed by the US media as the Great American Eclipse), Canada and Mexico were treated to as the moon passed between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow upon the land. Indeed those who got the real live viewing through their solar eclipse safety glasses marveled at the beauty and wonder of nature’s grand spectacle while those of us looking through our screens just had to settle for the second best thing.
There are many of us in the Caribbean region who remember the total solar eclipse of August 1999, and could pinpoint exactly where we were and what the experience was like.
For those fortunate enough to be in the path of totality, where the moon completely obscured the sun, the experience of witnessing such spectacle of about 4 minutes and 28 seconds was nothing short of awe-inspiring as evident by the thunderous cheers and applause from the various gatherings who witnessed the phenomenal as day turned into night as the sky darkened featuring the sun’s corona shimmering in the darkness.
But even for those of us outside the path of totality, the eclipse was a sight to behold in observing the moon partially blocking the sun and creating a crescent of light in the sky of such a rare and fleeting phenomenon. The togetherness of families, friends and strangers gathered, all united in their shared appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the natural world was truly special.
The 2024 eclipse provided a unique opportunity for human beings to reconnect with nature in a profound way. It can undoubtedly be said that in our modern, fast-paced world, it is easy to lose sight of the wonders that surround us every day.
Therefore, events like the eclipse remind us of the beauty and majesty of the universe, and our place within it. Such natural events should serve to inspire us to pause, reflect and marvel at the world around us.
Perhaps we should also be reminded to ‘stop and smell the roses’ and not get too caught up in our daily lives by allowing the fast-paced world and extreme business to eclipse the joys of our lives but instead choose to focus more on our spiritual well-being and growth.
BASSETERRE, St.Kitts (Thursday 11th April 2024)-“ … it may well be that when the history of now is recorded, it will show Mr. Richards’ resignation as contributing to the process of PAM [People’s Action Movement] regrouping. I am sure that in his selflessness, he would not mind if that is how history unfolded.”
So says well-known political commentator Dwyer Astaphan in his latest piece aired on Wednesday 10th April 2024 on topic of predicting that the outgoing PAM Leader 51-year-old Shawn Richards, who is the current Parliamentary Representative for Constituency Five, will not run for public office in St.Kitts again leading up to the next general elections, constitutionally due in 2027 at the five-year cycle.
Richards has been the elected PAM member of parliament since October 2004 and Party Leader since September 2012.
According to Astaphan: “Sometimes the most productive step a leader can take is the step down. How much voter strength will they be able to gather up by the next election?”
Referring to recent media statements made by Richards, Astaphan pointed at Richard’s decision to step down having cited personal pursuits such as studying for his PhD and preparing to set up a business as well as expressed lack of motivation for politics and acknowledged that he may not have been giving the best service to the party over the last year or two.
“He says that the party would be best served with another leader and that it is time to let fresh blood and new ideas come through. And he gave what some of us may regard as the correct answer. Strategically, when asked about continuing in parliament, saying that there’s a lot of time between now and the election to reflect and decide on that matter.”
Astaphan then shared his own view in talking about enough time, commenting, “Enough time to prepare the new leader and the party for the next election without risking the Sandy Point seat prematurely and unnecessarily.”
He expressed confidence in the belief that Richards will not run for public office in St. Kitts again.
“I’ve been thinking and saying to friends for some time, however, and having heard him now, I’m even more convinced that he will not run for public office in St. Kitts again.
He has also shared his position that the decision of Richards to step down opens the door to discussions about the future of politics in St. Kitts and Nevis, saying: “This situation opens the door to a discussion of the politics of St. Kitts and the country generally of St. Kitts and Nevis over the next three to eight years, maybe beyond.”
BASSETERRE, St.Kitts (Wednesday 10th April 2024)-First LadyDiani Prince-Drew, the wife of St. Kitts-Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, has been actively engaging in local public and community service since their marriage in February 2024, with her most recent involvement being donations of water to various preschools and daycare centre on the island of St.Kitts.
Other outings thus far include having delivered her first public speech (done in observance of International Women’s Day) as well as joining her husband on various engagements such as volunteer painting at the Joseph N. France General Hospital as part of the lobby renovation works on Saturday 16th March and the couple’s recently hosting a dinner for the 25 Most Remarkable Teens at the official prime minister’s residence located in Beacon Heightson Saturday 30th March.
St. Kitts-Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew and First Lady Diani Prince-Drew (center), seen with 2024 Most Remarkable Teen awardees during a dinner hosted at the official prime minister’s residence located in Beacon Heights on Saturday 30th March 2024. (Credit: Facebook/Diani Jimesha Prince-Drew)St. Kitts-Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew (seen painting) and First Lady Diani Prince-Drew go about volunteer painting at the Joseph N. France General Hospital as part of the lobby renovation works on Saturday 16th March (Credit: Facebook/Diani Jimesha Prince-Drew)
First Lady Prince-Drew shared on her official Facebook page that on Wednesday 10th April 2024, she was privileged to visit a number of pre-schools in various communities, namely: KeBabies Child Development (Conaree), Louisa Grant PreSchool (Conaree), Cayon DayCare (Cayon), Vera’s Day Care (Cayon), Ray of Hope (Needsmust), Nana’s House (St. Peter’s) and St. Peter’s Daycare (St. Peter’s).
First Lady Diani Prince-Drew (center) poses with a staff and students of the Louisa Grant Pre School in Conaree during a visit on Wednesday 10th April 2024 following donations of water (Credit: Facebook/Diani Jimesha Prince-Drew)
“I was extremely happy to personally hand over donations of water to each pre-school, which is very important in this period of extreme drought. I enjoyed spending time with the beautiful children who are all spirited, confident, and intelligent. I learnt about their favourite colours, kite flying, sports, and so much more.”
“I also appreciated being able to chat with the teachers to learn more about early childhood education. They all beamed with pride when speaking about their students. I’m grateful to the pre-schools for the warm welcome and for the invitations to return to spend time with them,” she commented.
“Side note: I’m thoroughly impressed by the St. Peter’s Daycare backyard garden. They have utilized old tyres to plant herbs and vegetables. Efforts such as these help to bolster food security and reduce food importation,” she added.
First Lady Prince-Drew’s dedication to public service extends beyond charitable acts, as she recently delivered her first public speech in her new capacity a stirring speech in commemoration of International Women’s Day during an event organised by the Adtalem Global Education EDGE – Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine Chapter, held on Friday 8th March 2024 at the school’s campus located in West Farm.
Reflecting on this year’s theme, ‘Inspire Inclusion’, she emphasized the ongoing struggle for gender equality and inclusion.
“ ‘Inspire Inclusion’ sparks a conversation that is both timely and necessary, as despite the fact that it is 2024 and we have made great strides to create more balanced, fair, and just societies, millions of women across the world still face a reality that is unbalanced, unfair, and unjust – socially, economically, culturally, and politically. The reality is that too many women do not have the same access to opportunities, platforms, and resources as men, and we are very much still in a battle for respect and inclusion,” Prince-Drew remarked in her speech.
“I say we because I, too, have had to experience this reality as well. As a relatively young, black, professional woman from a small island state, I have had to navigate male-centred spaces and rooms where my contributions, perspectives, and expertise were not always welcomed nor valued. Daunting though it may have been, these experiences have only fortified my resolve, and I have learned, with help, to boldly occupy space, voice my concerns, and leverage my skill sets in order to meet my goals as well as provide representation and opportunities for others, because that is my social responsibility,” she continued.
In other well-being of women news, First Lady Prince-Drew shared via her Facebook page that in February, she joined First Ladies, Mrs. Ann Marie Davis of The Bahamas and Mrs. Eloise Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as guests of First Lady Arya Ali of Guyana for a presentation on the Menstrual Hygiene Initiative which was spearheaded by First Lady Arya.
As understood, the event took place on the sidelines of the 46th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM in Guyana on Monday 26th February 2024.
It has been highlighted that the Menstrual Hygiene Initiative has provided over 32,000 schoolgirls with free sanitary pads, as part of the overall aim of eliminating period poverty.
First Lady Prince-Drew commended First Lady Arya Ali’s Initiative for making a difference in the lives of thousands of women and girls whilst noting “The Initiative is also an example of the importance of gender sensitivity as we seek to improve the lives of others and empower women.”
“I am committed and very much looking forward to commencing my own work with non-government and charitable organizations focused on women’s empowerment, social justice and the arts in the home that I have adopted and that has adopted me – St. Kitts and Nevis,” then stated First Lady Prince-Drew, an attorney-at-law and diplomat, who originally hails from St.Vincent and the Grenadines.
BASSETERRE, St.Kitts (Monday 8th April 2024)-St. Kitts police are on the hunt for suspects following two separate shootings-occurring hours apart- that have left two men in their 30s dead and another, also in his 30s, injured.
Dead are 33 -year-old Alex Harris of Challengers Village and 37-year-old Rashiel James of Middle Island while 30-year-old Leshawn Hazel of Main Street, Dieppe Bay is currently being nursed for gunshot wounds.
The first shooting took place at the Basseterre Bus and Ferry Terminal between 11:30 PM on Saturday 6th April and 12 AM on Sunday 7th April 7th, 2024.
Harris was found motionless in a chair by responding officers. Police say initial investigations suggest that he was fatally shot by a lone assailant. Despite efforts to save him, Harris was pronounced dead at the scene.
Shortly after, another shooting unfolded at a bar on Main Street in Parson’s Village between 1:30 AM and 2:30 AM on April 7th, 2024. James was discovered lying motionless on the ground while Hazel of Main sustained injuries during the attack. James tragically succumbed to his injuries at the scene while Hazel was rushed to the Mary Charles Hospital in Molineaux for treatment.
Preliminary investigations reveal that a single masked and armed assailant entered the bar and opened fire, causing chaos and tragedy. The Crime Scene Unit of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) processed both crime scenes, gathering items of evidential value to aid in their investigation.
The RSCNPF urges anyone with information about these incidents or any other criminal activities to come forward. To this end, the public is encouraged to contact the nearest police station or call the Crime Stoppers’ hotline at 707.
Police have indicated that as investigations progress, updates will be provided in keeping the general public appropriately informed of the investigations’ developments.The RSCNPF extends sincere condolences to all those affected who have been negatively impacted by these occurrences.
