Secretary-Treasurer of the Waterfront and Allied Workers Union (WAWU), Kertiste Augustus is optimistic that a long-standing impasse between the Dominica Air and Sea Ports Authority (DASPA) will be settled soon.

The issue at hand is that 16 years ago the salaries of stevedores and longshore men were cut short by 33% and as a result of this, 108 employees were affected. Augustus informed that discussions with DASPA management, which he described as “fruitful” has been taking place. Currently, discussions are at the point that the WAWU has to submit a claim to Port Authority for consideration.

Augustus stated that before this claim is submitted to DASPA, the Union has to go back to make the necessary calculations relating to the earning capacity of the annual salary for port workers, in addition to the 33%; then the amount to be claimed will be determined.