Four Trade Unions in Dominica have advanced a conversation on the formation of a National Trade Union Congress (TUC), an effort which is supported by the International Labour Organization.
The Dominica Amalgamated Workers Union (DAWU), the Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU), the Waterfront Allied Workers Union (WAWU) and the Dominica Teachers Association (DAT) have reignited a conversation on having a TUC officially launched within the next few months. The Unions are committed to work assiduously towards the formation of this umbrella body in Dominica by July 2025.
Two meetings have been held so far and on April 3rd a steering committee inclusive of all the unions that are fully on board was formed. The Steering Committee is mandated to lead and coordinate all activities for the formation and for the launch of the TUC.
The Steering Committee formed is headed by the President of the Dominica Public Service Union Steve Joseph with Frederica Riley of WAWU as Deputy Chairperson, Leah Shillingford of DAWU as Secretary, Delia Cuffy Weekes of the DPSU as Public Relations Officer and other members being; Thomas Letang of the DPSU and Ronald Sabaroche of DAWU.
The Unions also agreed to a Joint Solidarity Health walk for May day 2025, from Roseau to Soufriere on May 5, 2025, dubbed “Health is wealth, Unions united and on the Move“. They are also expected to publish a joint statement to mark the occasion of May Day 2025.
The Unions have all agreed to end this long-drawn-out attempt at forming a TUC as Dominica remain one of the last countries in CARICOM to form one. We are moving pass the apprehensions and delays of the past and truly demonstrate the belief that there is strength in Unity.
The UNIONS echo a loud call to members and their families to be part of the Joint Solidarity Walk which will leave the Bay front on the morning of May 5th from 8am. As we walk to help curb the incidence of Non- Communicable Diseases, we do so in the fight for mental health, justice and fairness in the workplace and as a demonstration of solidarity for better wages and conditions of employment for workers everywhere and for their general dignity.
Persons interested in participating in the walk should contact their Union or can reach the DPSU office at 448 2101.
