The Department of Labour, Co-operatives and Consumer Affairs is celebrating two significant industrial relations achievements, following the successful conclusion and signing of long-outstanding collective agreements involving the Millennium Heights Medical Complex (MHMC) and the Water and Sewerage Company Inc. (WASCO).

Acting Deputy Labour Commissioner Nicolai Lansiquot noted, "the agreements represent major milestones in the Department's ongoing efforts to foster harmonious labour relations, facilitate constructive dialogue, and promote industrial stability throughout Saint Lucia."

On July 27, officials of the Labour Department presided over the signing of a collective agreement between the Saint Lucia Medical and Dental Association (SLMDA) and the Millennium Heights Medical Complex (MHMC). The agreement brings closure to a long-standing matter that had been the source of considerable concern among employees and stakeholders and had resulted in threats of industrial action by medical professionals at the facility.

The signing of the agreement, which was also countersigned by the Labour Department, paves the way for doctors and physicians employed at the medical institution to begin receiving their negotiated allowances and benefits effective July 2026. "This successful conclusion of negotiations represents an important step in safeguarding industrial peace within the country's healthcare sector and ensuring continuity of service delivery to the public," noted Lansiquot.

Later on July 27, the Department recorded a second major success with the signing of a collective agreement between the Water and Sewerage Company Inc. (WASCO) and the Civil Service Association (CSA), the bargaining agent representing WASCO employees.

Under the agreement, employees will benefit from a six percent salary increase over the 2022–2024 triennium, in addition to a range of negotiated allowances and benefits. The agreement resolves another long-standing industrial matter and reflects the commitment of all parties to constructive engagement and mutually beneficial outcomes.

Both signings took place under the watchful gaze of Labour Department officials, who guided the discussions and facilitated the successful conclusion of the negotiations. The Department reported that in both instances, all parties were adequately represented and engaged in discussions that were cordial, respectful and solution-oriented, ultimately resulting in agreements that satisfied the interests of employers and employees alike.

Minister for Labour, Co-operatives and Consumer Affairs, Hon. Emma Hippolyte, has welcomed the successful conclusion of both agreements, describing them as a testament to the strength of social dialogue and the effectiveness of Saint Lucia's industrial relations framework.

"I am extremely pleased with the successful signing of these two collective agreements, both of which address matters that have been outstanding for some time. These outcomes demonstrate what can be achieved when employers, employees, trade unions and government engage in meaningful dialogue and negotiations in good faith. The amicable resolution of these issues not only benefits the workers involved but also contributes to the continued stability and peaceful industrial relations climate that Saint Lucia enjoys," Minister Hippolyte said.

The Minister further commended the parties involved for their commitment to the negotiation process and praised the Labour Department for its continued role in facilitating constructive labour-management relations across the island.

-END-