Members of the Bahamas Hotel Catering and Allied Workers Union demonstrated at the Sidney Poitier Bridge on Thursday against what they say is Atlantis’ and other hotels attempt to renege on an eight percent pay increase.
Union President Darren Woods voiced his concerns to members of the media. He said, “when you talk about their base pay, these are the ripping category persons, who we’re trying to strengthen their base pay where they’re able to go and get loans and qualify for homes and the like, which is very, very important in this country.”
Woods added, “the membership at large, from Ocean Club in the east to Lyford Cay in the west, are frustrated with the inordinate amount of time it has taken to have us complete this negotiation. And like I said, they have decided last night that enough is enough. This is now the first step for us to conclude these negotiations.”
Also at the demonstration was President of the Bahamas National Alliance Trade Union Congress, Belinda Wilson, who expressed support for the hotel union. “We stand here, today, in support and solidarity with the Bahamas Hotel Catering and Allied Workers Union. And I will say to the government if you are wise, you will work quickly.”
In a written statement, Director of Labour Howard Thompson stated that he was unaware of outstanding issues between the parties and he has invited all concerned to meet.
