Labour minister promises labour improvements are on the agenda for 2023 and beyond
KINGSTOWN, ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES — As the world recognized International Labour Day, or May Day, on May 1, the government of SVG promised workers a better year ahead in terms of labour conditions.
Saint Vincent & the Grenadines Minister of Labour Saboto Caesar. (Photo: SVG Government)
In delivering a Labour Day message, Minister of Labour Saboto Caesar said the Gonsalves administration is committed to addressing key concerns of the labour force in the months ahead.
The issues to be addressed include, but are not limited to:
- Work-abroad opportunities
- Blue economy development
- Upskilling
- Fair compensation
- Sustainable employment and economic growth
“We recognize the role that the workforce plays in the development of our nation, and we are determined to create an environment that is conducive to the growth and well-being of all our citizens,” the minister pledged.
More overseas jobs for SVG
More work-abroad opportunities are on the horizon for workers in St. Vincent & the Grenadines.
Minister Caesar said that not only is the government working to secure more overseas job opportunities for citizens, but there are initiatives to promote partnership with CARICOM Member States and foreign partners in this regard as well.
“This government intends to continue its dialogue with foreign entities to open the gateway for more skilled Vincentians to be gainfully employed abroad as we actively participate in the global labour market,” he said.
“In the same light, the expanding blue economy will be attracting a cadre of skilled workers from the CARICOM region and internationally.
“This will ensure that we have the requisite skill transfer to be able to harness the opportunities in our fisheries sector.”
Additionally, Caesar said his government is working with Taiwan ROC for skills training programmes that will improve the employability of St. Vincentians.
Fair compensation
Further, the government has established a Wage Council to better ensure jobs in SVG pay fair wages to workers at all levels.
The SVG Wage Council seeks to ensure workers are paid fairly. (Photo by Ed Zbarzhyvetsky on Deposit Photos)
Minister Caesar confirmed that the Wage Council, which was formed last year, officially began to carry out its mandate this March.
He noted, “The 2023 Wages Council will ensure that workers receive fair pay and that there is a fair distribution of wealth in our society.
“We believe that this is an important step towards building a more equitable society.
“In addition, the Labour Department has reinforced our commitment to the mandate of safeguarding the rights of workers and promoting harmonious industrial relations.
“We are confident that these measures will facilitate our goal of ensuring decent work for all.”
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