Trade Unions and Labor Rights

Role and Functions of Trade Unions

• Trade unions represent the best interests of their members and bargain on their behalf, providing a stronger voice for workers.
• The primary functions of trade unions are to promote, protect, and represent workers' rights and interests.
• Trade unions settle complaints and grievances between employers and employees through negotiation, collective bargaining, and industrial action.

Benefits of Joining a Trade Union

• Trade unions negotiate the best possible conditions of employment for workers, including:
  • Wage and salary increases
  • Safety in the workplace
  • Promotion
• All workers have the right to join a union.

Types of Trade Unions

• There are unions that represent different types of workers, such as:
  • Barbados Workers Union (BWU)
  • Barbados Union of Teachers (BUT)
  • Barbados Secondary Teachers Union (BSTU)
• There are several trade unions in Barbados, including:
  • BEC – Barbados Employers’ Confederation
  • BUT – Barbados Union of Teachers
  • BSTU – Barbados Secondary Teachers’ Union
  • BWU – Barbados Workers’ Union
  • NUPW – National Union of Public Workers

The Labour Department's Role

• The Labour Department acts as an intermediary between employers and employees, offering advice on labour laws and common practices.
• The Labour Department resolves issues related to vacation pay, and if unresolved, refers them to the Solicitor General’s Office.
• The Labour Department also acts as a conciliator in cases of unfair dismissal, and if unresolved, refers them to the Employment Rights Tribunal.

Learn about the role and functions of trade unions, including promoting and protecting workers' rights and interests, and settling disputes between employers and employees.