The president general of the Barbados Workers’ Union (BWU) has called for robust enforcement of labour standards across the country.
Shawn Knight warned that some legislation remains ineffective as violations continue without consequences, stressing that Barbados does not need more labour laws.
He pledged that the BWU will continue pressing for a fully staffed, empowered and respected Labour Department to ensure powerful interests cannot undermine workers’ rights.
Members of the BWU at the 84th Annual Delegates’ Conference at Solidarity House.
Knight delivered the remarks at the opening of the BWU’s 84th Annual Delegates Conference, where he declared that the organisation refuses to stand still as it prepares for its 85th anniversary on October 4.
Speaking under the theme Marching to 85, he said honouring the union’s legacy requires a forward‑looking approach to protect workers facing challenges, including restructuring, redundancy and precarious working conditions.
“Marching to 85 is not a backward class; it’s a forward march,” Knight told delegates, pointing to the union’s recent intervention regarding migrant workers in the construction sector who were subjected to substandard housing.
“When a major employer in the construction sector crossed the line… we did not whisper. We did not hesitate. If we defend migrant workers with that level of fairness, you can be absolutely certain that we will defend you.”
Knight also pointed to significant legislative and international progress achieved over the past year. He commended union General Secretary Toni Moore for leading the Portable Social Security Benefits resolution through Parliament, describing it as a vital policy ensuring social protection follows individuals across gig, platform and digital contracts.
Furthermore, he noted the BWU’s influence at the 112th International Labour Conference, where Barbadian delegates helped shape global conventions on decent work in the platform economy.
Knight outlined internal modernisations at the union, including new digital portals and expanded training through the Frank Walcott Labour College, before calling on delegates to reaffirm the union’s role as the shield and backbone of the Barbadian workforce.
