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National Trade Union Congress (NTUC) in Dominica

Four Dominican stand united in a grassy field holding a banner that reads 'National Trade Union Congress Dominica,' with palm trees and misty mountains in the background.

For decades, the major trade unions in Dominica have expressed a common desire to unite under a single umbrella body, much like their regional counterparts in the Caribbean. Despite several attempts and discussions, a formal National Trade Union Congress (NTUC) has never been fully realised. However, this longstanding goal now appears closer to fruition than ever before.

In early 2025, four of Dominica’s largest and most influential unions, the Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU), Waterfront and Allied Workers’ Union (WAWU), Dominica Amalgamated Workers’ Union (DAWU), and the Dominica Association of Teachers (DAT), publicly committed to establishing a National Trade Union Congress by July 9, 2025. This collaborative effort is guided by support from the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and regional union leaders.

A national steering committee has been created to oversee this process, chaired by Steve Joseph of DPSU. Frederica Riley (WAWU) is the Deputy Chairperson, Leah Shillingford (DAWU) is the Secretary, and Delia Cuffy Weekes (DPSU) manages public relations. Longtime union figures like Thomas Letang (DPSU) and Ronald Sabaroche (DAWU) are also involved, reflecting the serious intent behind the move.

Engagement with Government and International Bodies

The NTUC aims to maintain representation in several tripartite forums, including the Labour Advisory Board, and will provide input on proposed legislation such as the Labour Contracts Bill, Employment Safety Acts, and recent reforms under the Social Security Act.

It also hopes to maintain affiliations with international organisations like the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the Caribbean Congress of Labour (CCL), contributing to regional solidarity and technical support for national campaigns.

Challenges and Modern Role

  • Declining union membership due to privatisation and informal labour growth
  • Political tensions affecting union-government negotiations
  • Challenges adapting to the evolving service-based economy and youth employment needs

Despite this, it will become a relevant voice in shaping policies related to the Minimum Wage in Dominica, employment standards, and disaster resilience for labor in sectors affected by climate change.

Forward-Looking Goals for Dominica’s National Trade Union Congress (NTUC)

The NTUC will prioritise:

  • Reinvigorating youth participation in unions
  • Strengthening collective bargaining mechanisms
  • Promoting labour education in rural and informal sectors
  • Advocating for updated labor laws and retirement reforms in collaboration with the Social Security Board in Dominica

Through these sustained efforts, the National Trade Union Congress hopes to become a pillar in the defense of workers’ rights and a stakeholder in the governance of Dominica’s economy and social wellbeing.