Historic signing of Collectively-Bargained Agreements marks new era in Public Sector Relations
Monday, June 16, 2025
by Office of the Prime Minister
THE GOVERNMENT OF SAINT LUCIA AIMS TO FOSTER FAIR AND CONSTRUCTIVE RELATIONS WITH THE WORKFORCE.

The Government of Saint Lucia today proudly announced the successful signing of official Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) with seven of the nine Public Sector Unions and Staff Associations, a milestone in the government’s ongoing commitment to fostering fair and constructive relations with its public service workforce.

The signing ceremony, held earlier today, signifies a significant achievement in the negotiations process that began in December 2023. It underscores the Government’s dedication to engaging transparently and collaboratively with its valued public officers and employees.

Throughout the past months, the Government Negotiating Team (GNT), comprised of seven distinguished members appointed by the Cabinet, meticulously engaged with unions representing various sectors, including the Saint Lucia Trade Union Federation, the Saint Lucia Correctional Service Welfare Association, the Saint Lucia Police Welfare Association, the National Workers Union, and others. Their efforts resulted in agreements that address both financial and non-financial matters, aimed at improving the welfare of public servants.

Key highlights of the agreements include:

  • Salary increases of 2% annually for each year within the 2022–2025 period, and similarly for the subsequent 2025–2028 period, with the exception of a 3% increase in the final year of the latter triennium. 
  • The introduction of new provisions to enhance benefits, including payments for marking Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) School-Based Assessments, payments to Temporary Teachers for preparation weeks, and options for extending maternity leave. 
  • Investments in professional development for medical practitioners and the provision of diagnostic equipment to Nurse Practitioners. 
  • Additional support measures, including uniforms and laundry allowances for pharmacists, and initiatives aimed at strengthening mental health awareness among public officers.

While today’s signing marks an important milestone, it also lays the foundation for ongoing engagement. The Department of the Public Service remains committed to working with unions and staff associations to resolve outstanding matters, including negotiations with the Saint Lucia Police Welfare Association and the National Workers Union.

Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre, expressed gratitude for the collaborative spirit demonstrated during negotiations, stating, “This agreement reflects our unwavering commitment to our public officers. It is a testament to what can be achieved through dialogue and mutual understanding.” He further emphasized that the Government remains dedicated to fostering an equitable, responsive, and progressive public service for all Saint Lucians.

The Government of Saint Lucia reiterates its dedication to creating a fair and supportive work environment for all public sector employees, reinforcing its vision to build a resilient and prosperous nation.