The Employment Rights Tribunal in Barbados experienced a temporary pause in proceedings on Thursday due to the Barbados Water Authority (BWA) failing to submit a crucial witness statement on time. The case, brought by former Waste Water Unit Manager Patricia Inniss, alleges unfair dismissal during a retrenchment exercise in January 2019 under then-General Manager Keithroy Halliday. The delay was caused by the late filing of a statement by BWA’s acting CEO, Christopher Mapp, prompting the tribunal to suspend the session briefly to decide on its admissibility. BWA’s attorney, Gregory Nicholls, acknowledged the procedural breach but urged the tribunal to consider the utility company’s prior compliance with all orders. The tribunal ultimately admitted Mapp’s statement after Inniss’ attorney, Dr. Lenda Blackman, raised no objections but requested time to review its contents. The tribunal chair issued a four-part order, including admitting Mapp’s statement, allowing Inniss to compare it with Halliday’s withdrawn statement, and setting a new trial date for January 13, 2026. The chair emphasized the need to avoid further delays, reminding all parties of the case’s prolonged history since 2019. The tribunal panel also included trade unionist Frederick Forde and HR consultant Dr. Hensley Sobers. Both Inniss and Mapp were present at the hearing.