Government to Table First Labour Code Overhaul Since 1975
St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda — Antigua and Barbuda is set to undertake a sweeping overhaul of its Labour Code for the first time in five decades, according to Labour Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin.
The announcement came during a Labour Day interview, where the minister described the existing code—enacted in 1975—as outdated and unfit for the realities of the modern workplace.
“This year, the government will table a comprehensive revision of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Code to bring it in line with today’s realities,” Sir Steadroy said. “We’re now in 2025. The world has changed—AI, banking, and the hotel sector were not what they are today.”
The Labour Minister said the reforms will be developed through wide consultation with unions, employer groups, legal experts, and civil society. He emphasized that the goal is to create a framework that protects workers while enabling economic growth in a rapidly evolving labour market.
“We must ensure that our laws keep pace with the developments in our nation,” he said, adding that early input from stakeholders had already begun.
Sir Steadroy also pledged that alongside the code revision, the Workmen’s Compensation Act—unchanged since 1957—will be modernised. “There must be precise, modern legislation to ensure fair compensation for occupational injuries,” he said.
The initiative is part of a broader agenda to strengthen labour protections and improve working conditions across the country. Other proposals under consideration include paternity leave, a four-day work week, and an updated minimum wage aligned with the cost of living.
Sir Steadroy, who has served in labour relations since 1974, said the changes reflect the government’s commitment to worker welfare and progressive labour policy.
“This Labour Code was always meant to be a living document. After 50 years, it’s time to bring it to life again.”
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Amen to that but our wages need to reflect for us to keep up with the rising taxes and cost of living
Funny looking cutie🤣🫣
Wow,
Money and power will get you anything.
CUTIE LOOKS AWFUL, LIKE AN YARD FOWL- Is he running on the ABLP ticket again, the party of ‘renaissance?’
A lot has changed since 1975, so this overhaul is definitely overdue.
1975? That’s ancient. It’s high time we caught up with the rest of the world.
Will this overhaul address the growing gig economy and freelancers?
Will this include regulations for remote work and other modern work trends?
Will there be a focus on ensuring decent pay and conditions for all workers?
Interesting… hmmm
It’s about time. The current Labour Code is way outdated.
Make sure to state that all institutions must have a fair pay scale on all levels.. So hospital must comply. I’m a line staff and other staff with just about the same years and qualification making significantly more. Speaking to our supervisors is of absolutely no help.
Time is closing on you. With an aggregate of some 240 plus years, you Cutie, Molwyn and Robin need to stay at home and enjoy the rest of your allotted time. Dying you hair, bleaching your skin, (Robin excluded) and using botox indicate that you are still seeking something..whatever that is. Your gait exposes you and the depends are bundled in the seats of your pants. Please don’t stay around to embarrass yourselves like the last House Speaker.
Alright Sir, I for one am holding you to that promise.
Stone jesus may come first. We are still waiting for number portability.
That’s not going to happen for quite a few years still.period