The management of H.H.V Whitchurch & Co. Ltd. has responded to public statements from the Dominica Amalgamated Workers Union (DAWU) regarding outstanding back pay and benefits owed to employees under the current collective agreement.
Union representatives said workers have been waiting too long for their full entitlements. “The company has failed to honor the timelines that were set for the payment of retroactive wages,” the union stated, adding that delays were also affecting uniform allowances and overtime payments. In its response, H.H.V Whitchurch confirmed that payments have begun but not all obligations have been met. “We have started the process of paying the back pay,” the company said, noting that additional payments will be made.
Management pointed to ongoing economic pressures, stating: “We are doing our best to meet our commitments, but the current economic situation has impacted our cash flow.”
The company added that it intends to resolve the matter in cooperation with the union. “We remain committed to engaging the union in good faith and to resolving all outstanding matters through dialogue,” it said.
DAWU maintains that honoring the full agreement is necessary for worker morale. “We will continue to push for every cent owed to be paid in the shortest possible time,” the union stressed. Both parties confirmed discussions are continuing, with the shared understanding that a resolution is in the best interest of employees and the company.
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