The Barbados Employers’ Confederation (BEC) says it has noted with concern the recent allegations made “against a private, Barbados-based construction firm” regarding exploitation of migrant labour.
“While the BEC does not comment on the specifics of matters that may be subject to investigation by the relevant authorities, the confederation wishes to reaffirm its unwavering commitment to the principles of decent work, fair treatment, and the protection of the rights and dignity of all workers in Barbados, irrespective of nationality, gender, occupation or employment status.
“Barbados has long prided itself on fostering workplaces that are underpinned by respect, equity and adherence to national labour laws and internationally-accepted labour standards. As such, the confederation firmly believes that all workers – whether Barbadian nationals or migrant employees – deserve safe working conditions, fair compensation, freedom from discrimination and exploitation, and access to the protections afforded under our labour legislation,” stated executive director Sheena Mayers-Granville in a press release yesterday.
Last Saturday, the Barbados Workers’ Union revealed that it was the JADA Group at the centre of its investigation into inhumane conditions under which migrant workers were living. The news had broken the Thursday before and at that time Minister of Labour Colin Jordan, without naming the company, said his ministry would be carrying out further inspections of the quarters at Black Bess, St Peter.
Yesterday, the BEC urged the steadfast implementation of, and sustained commitment to, the 2025-2030 Barbados Decent Work Country Programme – developed jointly by the Social Partners and the International Labour Organisation and launched in 2025 – across the public and private sectors.
The programme provides a comprehensive framework for ensuring economic growth and business success are pursued alongside social justice, respect for human rights and sustainable employment practices.
The BEC said effective implementation of the programme would further strengthen Barbados’ labour landscape by promoting consistent employment standards, enhancing worker protections, and ensuring that all individuals working in Barbados, regardless of nationality, were treated with dignity, fairness and respect. ( PR/AC)
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