ABWU negotiates salary increase for Goddard Catering staff

Employees at Goddard Catering Group (GCG) are poised to receive a significant salary boost following successful negotiations between the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) and GCG management. The agreement stipulates a six percent wage increase, to be implemented in annual increments of two percent over the next three years. This development marks a milestone in labor relations, particularly as the negotiations addressed two collective agreements simultaneously: one spanning July 1, 2019, to June 30, 2022, and another covering July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2025. Fernando Samuel, Senior Industrial Relations Officer, highlighted the unique nature of the talks, noting that the pandemic had disrupted discussions on the earlier agreement, leading to layoffs and severances. However, employees active between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022, will receive an additional increment for that period. GCG General Manager Mario Colindres expressed pride in the outcome, describing the process as amicable and beneficial for both the company and its staff. He emphasized GCG’s commitment to fostering a strong partnership with the Union to enhance employee welfare. Arion Ryan, GCG’s Head of HR, praised the smooth negotiations, while shop steward Neople Browne acknowledged that the agreement addressed many employee concerns. The ABWU commended GCG management for their cooperative approach and looks forward to future discussions.