Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Works categorically refutes the misinformation being circulated by Mr. Ralph Potter, President of “The People’s Union,” regarding an alleged dispute over employee representation and workplace concerns at the Ministry.
The Ministry remains committed to upholding workers’ rights in accordance with the Labour Code, Collective Bargaining Agreements, and established legal protocols, while ensuring the efficient delivery of critical government services.
Recent reports and statements by Mr. Potter have inaccurately portrayed the Ministry’s actions as “unlawful” and dismissive of workers’ concerns.
These claims stem from an unplanned visit and subsequent unlawful industrial action on August 1, 2025, initiated by Mr. Potter and representatives of “The People’s Union.” The Ministry wishes to set the record straight based on the facts:
The Antigua Trades and Labour Union (AT&LU) is the legally recognized collective bargaining agent for non-established government employees, including security personnel at the Ministry of Works.
No formal notice has been received indicating any transition of this role to “The People’s Union” or any other entity.
On July 31, 2025, Mr. Potter requested an urgent meeting via WhatsApp for August 1, 2025, at 9:00 AM to discuss general matters related to security personnel.
The Permanent Secretary, Mr. Sean Cenac, responded promptly on the morning of August 1, informing Mr. Potter that he had been fully briefed on the issues, that AT&LU had already met with all security personnel, and that a structured meeting with management was scheduled to address concerns in collaboration with the recognized bargaining agent.
Despite this response, an unlawful industrial action was staged outside the Ministry’s headquarters on August 1, 2025, based on the false claim that workers were being mistreated.
In reality, the Ministry is actively working to improve security services fairly and efficiently, as mandated for critical government institutions.
The Ministry acknowledges that “The People’s Union” represents two specific non-established workers and respects this formal arrangement. Matters related to these individuals are handled accordingly.
However, broader issues affecting security personnel are being addressed through the established channels with AT&LU, in line with the Labour Code and Collective Bargaining Agreement.
On August 1, 2025, the Permanent Secretary met with AT&LU representatives to quell the illegal industrial action, reconfirm the Ministry’s commitment to ongoing discussions, and collaboratively resolve workers’ concerns—such as uniforms, supervision, and fair treatment—while preserving the Ministry’s responsibility to ensure efficient operations.
Mr. Sean Cenac, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, stated: “We regret the disruption caused by this unlawful action, which appears to be based on incomplete and inaccurate information.
The Ministry is fully committed to our obligations under the law, and is actively engaged in a live, ongoing process with the recognized bargaining agent to assess and resolve all issues.
We invite clarification from the Office of the Honourable Attorney General and the Labour Commissioner on any expanded role for ‘The People’s Union,’ but we view attempts to insert unauthorized representation as premature, disruptive, and undermining of established collaborative efforts.
Rest assured, we remain committed to the best arrangements for government security objectives while preserving workers’ rights.”
The Ministry emphasizes that employees are free to seek representation in accordance with the law, but employers are duty-bound to engage through recognized channels to avoid chaos and ensure fairness.
Claims of contradictions or disrespect in communications are unfounded; the Permanent Secretary has maintained open lines with Mr. Potter on prior matters and responded appropriately to the recent request.
The Ministry calls on all parties to respect legal processes and collaborate positively to support our workers and the public.
We will continue to work with AT&LU and relevant authorities to address legitimate concerns swiftly and transparently.
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This person that wrote this is horrible. Everything those people say about the treatment of Security Officers you at public works is the truth. Everything all of it is the truth. U all don’t treat Security Officers good at all.
TALK TRUTH
Mr PS the claim is not false, and if you can say that the claims are false that means you don’t know what is going on iat public works. You need to go to all the School and see the condition most Security Officers are working out under. SHAME SHAME SHAME.
Where was the notices when road works were ongoing on fort road?
Noted
The mistaken belief they were being mistreated? .how can they be mistakenly mistreated.
This statement confused the heck out of me
The Ministry is absolutely right to follow legal protocols. We can’t have every group claiming to represent workers without proper recognition, chaos would follow.
If workers felt strongly enough to protest, something’s wrong. Dismissing it as ‘unlawful’ without listening sends the wrong message.
Maria where are you?
them must stop taking advantage of people and then present a narrative of innocence, MARIA, they want to see you
Who ever wrote this is telling lies
What a shame, so much Security Officers leave the job because of bad treatment.
Them people down there don’t know how to deal with workers because the have nothing good about them period.
Why does it seem like there is always some sort of drama at Public Works? My lady I so agree with you. Your peace of mind should be priority, but if you are indeed being victimized then you should seek advice from your union rep
I come here to read about my country. I live in the US. But I hate to see lies being perpetuated, especially when they can impact someone’s career and reputation. Valerie Otto’s questions transparency and honesty in communications. It’s alittle weird when officials don’t own up to the truth and instead push false narratives. People deserve clarity and accountability, not misleading statements that only serve to cover up the real issues. with a colleague named Mr. Samuel.
It takes a lot of courage for a government worker to speak out publicly against their superiors. I’m sure they are worried about the potential repercussions. This kind of situation can create a chilling effect where other public servants are afraid to challenge decisions they believe are unfair. It’s crucial that this individual is protected from any retaliation for speaking their mind. We need to support our public servants and ensure their rights are respected.
The importance of a clear and fair transfer policy.
If what Ms. Otto says is true, this is pure victimization. No worker should face retaliation for standing up for their rights.
@Tamia – She seems to be very quiet in this. guess she haven’t shaken off from the carnival spirit
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