Four major trade unions in Dominica have agreed to establish a National Trade Union Congress (TUC) by July 9, 2025. This marks a significant milestone in the country’s labour movement, as Dominica has long been one of the few CARICOM countries without such a unifying body.
President of the Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU), Steve Joseph, confirmed the unions’ commitment to the initiative. He says the unions are receiving assistance from the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
“We have also solicited and received confirmation of support from the ILO. We are very happy the ILO is onboard with us on this journey to provide financial and technical support.”
The four unions involved in this historic agreement are the Dominica Public Service Union, the Dominica Amalgamated Workers Union, the Waterfront and Allied Workers Union, and the Dominica Association of Teachers. Together, they have formed a steering committee to guide the establishment of the congress.
“This is a long-awaited process of establishing a TUC. Dominica may be the last island in CARICOM to set up,” Joseph said.
As part of this year’s May Day celebrations, the unions have also planned a joint a solidarity health walk. Participants will walk from the Dame Eugenia Charles Boulevard in Roseau to the community of Soufriere in the southernmost part of the island.
The initiative aims to rally union members and the general public in support of worker rights and the formation of the new congress. (Loop News)
