David Massiah Criticizes PM’s Minimum Wage Announcement, Calls for Workers’ Rights Reform

Senator and union leader David Massiah has criticized Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s recent statement about increasing the minimum wage, calling it an “election gimmick” aimed at pacifying the working class without meaningful consultation. Speaking at a United Progressive Party (UPP) rally in St. Peter, Massiah urged workers to reject what he described as the government’s pattern of neglect and disrespect toward the labor force.

Massiah was addressing constituents in support of UPP candidate George Wehner, who is contesting the January 14 by-election in St. Peter. He described the election as a “watershed moment” for Antigua and Barbuda’s working class.

Referring to Prime Minister Browne’s announcement on his radio program about an impending minimum wage hike, Massiah questioned the lack of engagement with stakeholders.

“They haven’t informed the stakeholders, yet they’re making these promises,” Massiah said. “What are they basing these decisions on? Where is the data? This is another example of governance by gimmick.”

Massiah criticized the government for failing to consult with unions and workers before implementing key policy changes, pointing to the recent minimum wage increase in 2022 as insufficient. He argued that this approach demonstrates a lack of respect for the working class.

The senator also raised concerns about the treatment of public servants and former employees of LIAT 1974 Ltd. He highlighted what he described as the erosion of workers’ rights, citing instances where the government allegedly bypassed unions and undermined workers’ ability to negotiate.

“Public servants in this country have been denied their freedom of association and their right to negotiate,” he said. “This government has turned workers into doormats.”

Massiah specifically addressed the plight of former LIAT workers, accusing the government of offering inadequate compensation through bonds rather than cash settlements. He claimed that many workers are still waiting for promised payments, despite prior agreements.

Massiah called on the people of St. Peter to vote for George Wehner, whom he described as a champion for workers’ rights. He argued that a vote for the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) candidate would be a vote for continued neglect of the working class.

“George Wehner is the candidate who will stand with the workers of Antigua and Barbuda,” Massiah said. “It’s time to send a clear message to the ABLP that enough is enough.”

“The time has come to put Gaston Browne and his government in the dustbin of history,” he said. “We need leaders who care about the workers, not just during election season but every single day.”

The St. Peter by-election is scheduled for January 14, 2025, and is being closely watched as a test of the government’s standing with the electorate.

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