AT&LU President Denounces Rival Unions’ Criticism

President Denounces Rival Unions’ Criticism, Reaffirms Commitment to Membership

The President of the Antigua Trades and Labor Union (AT&LU), Bernard de Nully, has firmly rejected criticism from competing unions, asserting that the historic alignment between AT&LU and the Antigua Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) remains a cornerstone of the union’s strength and influence.

Speaking during V.C Bird Day, de Nully dismissed claims that ATANDLU’s connection to the ruling party undermines its independence as “absolute nonsense.” He emphasized that the union’s founding principles and enduring partnership with the ABLP have historically led to transformative outcomes for workers, including improved labor conditions and greater political representation.

“The Antigua Trades and Labor Union will not abandon its legacy,” de Nully stated. “Under my presidency, there will be no separation between the union and the party. This is not just about our history; it’s about ensuring a unified approach to protecting workers’ rights and advancing their welfare.”

De Nully highlighted that the ATANDLU’s dual commitment to workers and employers fosters sustainable development, benefiting both labor and industry. He dismissed rivals’ attempts to sway members to competing unions, attributing such efforts to divisive tactics that threaten labor solidarity.

“To those who try to convince our membership to join other unions, I say this: our alignment with the ABLP is a strength, not a weakness. It ensures that workers’ voices are heard at the highest levels of government and that their concerns translate into meaningful policies,” he asserted.

The ATANDLU president urged union members to remain steadfast in their commitment to the union, echoing the legacy of Sir Vere Cornwall Bird Sr., the union’s founder and the first Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda. De Nully called on all comrades to uphold the values of solidarity and resilience, particularly in light of modern challenges facing workers.

“Let us be resolute, fearless, and united,” de Nully urged. “Our mission is to ensure that every member benefits from equitable representation, regardless of race, gender, or financial standing.”

De Nully also outlined plans to strengthen membership engagement through section meetings starting in January 2025. These meetings aim to reconnect with members and address their evolving needs, reaffirming ATANDLU’s position as the union of choice for workers across Antigua and Barbuda.

“Failure is not an option,” he concluded, rallying members to stand together in preserving and strengthening the union’s role as a pillar of labor advocacy in Antigua and Barbuda.

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