By Spokesman Newsroom
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 13th June 2024)- “The St. Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union (SKNTLU) remains steadfast in its mission to champion the welfare of domestic workers, reinforcing the importance of these vital contributors to the nation’s economy and society.” Such sentiments have been expressed by SKNT&LU General Secretary Precious Mills, in speaking about the upcoming observance of International Domestic Workers Day (16 June 2024) which places a global spotlight on the celebration of the 2011 passage of the International Labour Organization Convention 189 geared towards the decent work agenda under the law for domestic workers.
Mills highlighted that domestic workers are hired to handle various household duties including personal care, cleaning, cooking, laundry and different forms of yard work. “Domestic workers are the backbone of many households, providing essential services that enable other sectors of the economy to function smoothly.
They deserve to be recognized, respected and protected under the labour laws just like all other workers,” she stated. She added: “Domestic workers are often unsung heroes in the care economy, providing essential services such as childcare, elderly care and household management.” Mills noted that while St.
Kitts-Nevis currently has in place the 2005 Domestic Workers Order, efforts will continue in pushing the government to ratify and implement C-189 so as to strengthen the legislative protection and well-being of this group of workers. According to her, this year’s observance of IDWD domestic workers’ rights will see a campaign awareness on digital platforms and social media to raise awareness and engage the public.
The Union, along with other unions of the Caribbean Domestic Workers group (of which St. Kitts-Nevis is a member) will come together virtually in highlighting the value and dignity of domestic workers. “By leveraging the digital space, we can reach a wider audience and foster a greater appreciation for domestic workers.
It’s crucial that we amplify their voices and stories and social media offers an effective avenue for this.” Mills urged the public to recognize these workers as essential. “Domestic workers are workers too, and they should be proud and dignified in their roles.
Their labour is vital to the well-being of our communities. Therefore, we must work collectively to ensure they receive fair treatment, adequate wages, and safe working conditions. Our Union remains committed to advocating for the rights of all workers, with a renewed focus on those in the domestic sector, and so with our ongoing efforts, we are calling on the community to stand in solidarity with domestic workers, acknowledging their contributions and advocating for their rights as well.” Domestic workers and all other workers in general are encouraged to join the union.
Visit: Facebook/St. Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union or call 1-869-661-2544 (WhatsApp included) or 1-869-465-2229 for more details. Front Page Image: Used for illustration purposes only shows a domestic worker in South Africa while on duty ironing a shirt at her employer’s household. (Credit: www. indwe. co. za)
