Thomas Letang

Thomas Letang is a prominent trade unionist in Dominica, widely known for his long-standing service as the General Secretary of the Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU). His leadership within the union has positioned him as a central figure in defending workers’ rights, advocating for fair labour practices, and engaging in policy discussions that shape Dominica’s employment landscape.

Early Life and Career

Letang has been actively involved in the trade union movement for several decades. His early involvement in labour affairs was driven by a deep concern for public service employees and the need for structured representation within the government workforce.

Letang rose through the ranks of the DPSU due to his commitment to advocacy, strategic negotiation, and his unwavering stance on protecting the rights of civil servants. Over time, he gained a reputation not only for his calm and reasoned leadership style but also for his refusal to remain silent in the face of policies he deemed unjust.

Role in the DPSU

As General Secretary, Letang has spearheaded numerous campaigns and negotiations for better wages, improved working conditions, and legal protections for public service workers. He has frequently called out what he considers government overreach or failure to engage in proper consultation with public sector unions.

Letang’s public addresses often highlight:

• The importance of respecting collective agreements.
• The need for timely promotions and fair salary adjustments.
• The preservation of pension rights and job security.
• Government accountability and transparency in labour matters.

One of his distinguishing characteristics is his insistence on independence; Letang has repeatedly stated that the DPSU must not be aligned politically and must function solely in the interest of workers.

Advocacy and Public Commentary

Thomas Letang is regularly featured in local media, especially during periods of national negotiations or civil unrest over labour matters. He has spoken out on issues such as:

• Inadequate working environments in public buildings.
• The need for occupational safety across all departments.
• Delayed appointments and the politicization of the public service.

He has also critiqued government practices around consultation and legislation, notably warning against perceived attempts to weaken trade unions or marginalize their role.

Letang’s speeches often reflect both diplomacy and defiance. He is known for stating when the union “is not satisfied” and for calling out “wrong is wrong,” no matter the source. His long-standing presence in the DPSU has made him a go-to voice on labour relations in Dominica.

Impact and Legacy

Over the years, Letang’s leadership has helped secure better conditions for many public workers and has maintained the DPSU’s status as a powerful force in the country’s labour movement. His emphasis on institutional memory and consistency has provided stability during political changes, economic downturns, and periods of industrial action.

Letang has also contributed to broader Caribbean labour discourse, ensuring that Dominica’s public service union movement remains engaged with regional and international labour organizations.

His approach combines a deep understanding of employment law with a grounded awareness of the lived experiences of workers. This dual perspective has helped build trust among DPSU members and respect from policymakers, even amid disagreements.

Continued Leadership

Letang remains at the helm of the DPSU, continuing his work to strengthen union representation, demand accountability, and defend the public workforce. His ability to remain relevant in shifting political and economic climates speaks to his skill as both a strategist and a leader rooted in principle.