ABPSA Welcomes Progress but Presses Government on Pay, Reclassification and Vaccine Mandate Payments

The Antigua and Barbuda Public Service Association (ABPSA) has welcomed steps taken to improve conditions for public servants but is pressing the government to act more quickly on unresolved matters, including reclassification, equitable pay, and outstanding payments tied to the COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

In its Labour Day message issued on May 4, 2026, the union paid tribute to public officers, calling them the “backbone of the nation” and noting that their role remains vital despite often being overlooked.

The ABPSA pointed to recent gains—such as the clearing of long-standing back pay and a five percent interim salary increase—as signs of progress, but cautioned that more work is needed.

“While we acknowledge progress, we must also speak with clarity as progress is not completion,” the Association said.

A key concern highlighted was the planned public service reclassification exercise set for July 2026. The union described it as a major reform effort, warning that its outcome will have far-reaching implications for wages, staff morale, retention, and the appeal of public sector jobs.

It is urging authorities to ensure the process is carried out fairly and transparently, with implementation timelines consistent with those applied to other unions.

The ABPSA also renewed its call for payments to workers who were sent home during the vaccine mandate period, stating that commitments made to those employees must now be honoured without further delay.

More broadly, the union outlined principles it believes should underpin reform, including transparency, alignment with current economic conditions, and compensation that reflects workers’ qualifications, duties, and performance.

It further raised concerns about mounting cost-of-living pressures, arguing that salary structures must keep pace with modern economic realities.

“This is not about entitlement; it is about equity,” the ABPSA said, adding that properly compensated public servants strengthen national institutions and development.

While reaffirming its willingness to engage with the government, the Association stressed that discussions must lead to concrete outcomes.

As Labour Day is observed, the union called for unity among its members and urged policymakers to act decisively in addressing workers’ concerns, noting that the push for fairness, dignity, and opportunity continues both at home and abroad.

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