NASSAU, Bahamas — The Bahamas Public Service Union (BPSU) and the Airport Authority signed a three-year industrial agreement yesterday, eight years after the expiration of the last agreement, The Nassau Guardian reported on Thursday, January 12.
BPSU President Kimsley Ferguson said during a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister to commemorate the signing, that a new agreement is already in the works, with negotiations to begin before the expiration of this current agreement, so that an inordinate amount of time does not elapse between agreements again.
Ferguson explained that while the union did not get everything it wanted, the conclusion of negotiations is good for Airport Authority workers.
“We’re pleased to be here at this signing. We’re indeed thankful. We’ve been at it for a while,” said Ferguson.
“This particular industrial agreement would have spanned over two administrations. We would have had to resubmit it. It had expired. This morning we’re just elated that it has been concluded and we can move on.
“And I too, the Bahamas Public Service Union, views the bigger picture and now can get down to the brass tacks of ensuring that the visitors of this country have an awesome travel experience.”
Airport Authority Managing Director Peter Rutherford said during the press conference that his organization also did not get everything it wanted out of the industrial agreement, but ensured that it is a good and equitable agreement.
He added that given the significance of Airport Authority employees – who provide some of the first and last impressions of The Bahamas to visitors – it was important to make those employees “comfortable”.
“Naturally there would have been some challenges in making sure that everything was consistent with what both parties wanted,” said Rutherford. “I think the signing of this agreement is a demonstration of both a partnership and stewardship. Each side did not get everything they wanted, but this represents a banner day where all sides can come together and come to an agreeable position on what has taken place.” See complete article in The Nassau Guardian at https://thenassauguardian.com/new-industrial-agreement-for-airport-workers-after-eight-years/
