Employees of the Eastern Caribbean Amalgamated Bank (ECAB) are set to receive a salary increase along with an enhanced package of benefits following the signing of a new Collective Bargaining Agreement between the Bank and the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU).
The agreement, which covers the period 1 October 2025 to 30 September 2028, provides an 11% salary increase over three years, with high-performing employees eligible to receive an additional increase of up to 2% on their annual salary.
The agreement also introduces several improvements to the terms and conditions of employment, including paid study leave; an increase in paternity leave from five to ten days; five days’ paid adoption leave; reduced working hours on Fridays, and an improved long-service compensation.
(L-R) Fernando Samuel, Natasha Joseph-Richards, Michael Spencer, Glenroy Aaron, Tracy Benn-Roberts
ABWU Senior Industrial Relations Officer, Fernando Samuel, described the negotiations as constructive and praised the spirit of cooperation shown throughout the process.
“The negotiations were very smooth and all parties were pleased with the outcome. I am satisfied that the benefits contained in this agreement represent real progress for our members,” he said.
Shop Steward, Glenroy Aaron, welcomed the successful conclusion of the negotiations, noting that the agreement demonstrates the commitment of both parties to maintaining a positive working relationship.
“This agreement shows that the bank and the union are working together for the benefit of both employees and the organisation.”
Fellow Shop Steward, Natasha Joseph-Richards also expressed satisfaction with the outcome while encouraging greater efficiency in future negotiations.
ECAB General Manager, Michael Spencer, underscored the importance of the collective bargaining process in fostering a productive and balanced workplace. He said the agreement reflects the bank’s ongoing commitment to nurturing a healthy partnership with the union and its members.
“We are determined to ensure that our staff are treated fairly and that we are operating in an extremely harmonious environment. We’re very focused on that,” Spencer said.
Manager of Human Resources at ECAB, Sandra Abbott, reiterated the Bank’s commitment to fostering “open, transparent and respectful communication” with the Union.
General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, Tracy Benn-Roberts, a member of the Bank’s negotiating team, commended the positive relationship the bank and the union have forged over the years, and which has assisted in bringing about the “win-win outcome” for the parties.
The representatives from both institutions expressed confidence that outstanding matters deferred during the negotiations will be addressed efficiently in the coming months, reflecting the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that characterised the collective bargaining process.
The ABWU remains committed to partnering with employers to negotiate fair agreements that improve the lives of workers and promote stable and productive workplaces.
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