St. George’s, May 22, 2011 – Labour Minister, Hon. Glynis Roberts, has said that the efforts at further Caribbean integration must not only be championed by governments, but also by trade unions and non-governmental groups such as private sector organizations.
“Governments must not be seen as being alone in pushing the integration process,’’ Minister Roberts said in an address at a just-concluded symposium in Barbados.
The theme of the meeting, which was co-sponsored by the International Labour Organization, was “Tripartism and Social Dialogue: Comparative Experiences in Dealing with Economic and Social Development Issues.’’
Mrs. Roberts, who is also Minister of Social Security and Ecclesiastical Affairs, said both the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OCES) need greater input from labour and non-governmental organizations in decisions that affect the people of the region.
“We need to lobby for inclusion of the social partners, including the non-governmental organizations, on key committees and organs of both CARICOM and the OECS. Consultation with the social partners on important decisions affecting the people, and development of the region, must take place and must be key watchwords of the integration process,’’ Mrs. Roberts said during a panel discussion.
The topic of the discussion was, “Taking Advantage of Tripartism and Social Dialogue to Support Regional Integration and Enhance its Benefits.’’
The Grenadian Minister suggested a “tripartite approach’’ to educating nationals on specific issues such as the free movement of people across the region; the development of common certification and standards in education, training and job requirements; and in drafting legislation to “ensure that workers’ benefits are preserved as they move from state to state.’’
“Since each of the social partners represents an important interest group, we have a responsibility to those we represent to work together to advance their cause and influence decisions which will have an impact on their lives,’’ said Minister Roberts.
“The view that social dialogue can solve some of the most threatening problems faced by mankind has been endorsed globally,’’ she added.
Apart from Mrs. Roberts, four other Grenadians participated in the Barbados symposium.
They were Senator Chester Humphrey, President General of the Technical and Allied Workers Union, and General Secretary of the Caribbean Congress of Labour; Labour Commissioner Cyrus Griffith; Grenada Trades Union Council General Secretary, Ray Roberts; and Grenada Employers Federation President, Michael Philbert.
