JCTU proposes Joint Industrial Council to help protect hotel workers' rights

The Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions (JCTU) is calling for the establishment of a Joint Industrial Council for the Tourism Industry to ensure that hotel workers' rights are adequately protected.

In a letter to labour minister Pearnel Charles Jr, which was released to the media, JCTU president St Patrice Ennis also requested a meeting with Charles to discuss the current discontent among hotel workers and explore potential collaborative solutions.

The move by the JCTU follows Tuesday's strike by workers at Secrets and Breathless resorts in Montego Bay, St James, and the recent industrial action by workers at Royalton Negril.

The JCTU has expressed "deep concern" for the challenges faced by the workers who have complained of being overworked and underpaid.

"These issues are creating distress and discontent within the workforce, which directly impacts the well-being of the workers and the stability of the [tourism] industry," Ennis said in his letter.

He noted that a Joint Industrial Council for the industry could be instrumental in ensuring that fair labour practices are upheld and that a framework for swiftly addressing disputes is developed.

Ennis said the JCTU that the council could consist of the Government, possibly represented by the Jamaica Tourist Board; member unions of the JCTU; and representatives of the owners of the hotels.

"This collaborative body could also serve as an important step toward improving standards across the hotel industry, providing workers with more secure and supportive employment conditions," Ennis said.

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