Workers Urged – By Deslyn A Joseph
Workers Urged Prepare Future
The General Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Trades and Labour Union (AT&LU), Alrick Daniel, is calling on workers across Antigua and Barbuda to adopt stronger financial habits, commit to lifelong learning, and prepare for emerging global challenges.
Speaking at a joint Labour Day rally hosted by the union and the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) on Monday, Daniel warned that while the country has overcome past struggles, new and more complex threats are on the horizon.
He pointed to issues such as inflation, climate change, artificial intelligence, protectionism, and geopolitical pressures as key concerns, noting that many of these challenges originate beyond the nation’s borders but will have direct local impacts.
“The struggles are not over. The modern threats are even greater than those of the past,” he said, urging especially young people to begin preparing themselves now.
Daniel acknowledged the country’s recent progress, highlighting infrastructure development, expanded educational opportunities through institutions such as The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus and the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS), as well as job creation and rising wages.
However, he stressed that national development must be matched by a stronger sense of civic responsibility. He expressed concern over the destruction of public infrastructure, citing damage to newly installed bus shelters as an example, and called on citizens to take greater pride in national assets.
Daniel also emphasized the importance of education at all stages of life, encouraging individuals regardless of age or circumstance, to take advantage of available learning opportunities.
“Learning is lifelong. Do not let age be a barrier,” he said.
In addressing workplace culture, he urged workers to shift their mindset, viewing employment not merely as a means of earning income but as a pathway to improving their standard of living. He called for greater professionalism and productivity, discouraging workplace conflict and encouraging individuals to strive for advancement or seek new opportunities where growth is limited.
Financial responsibility was another key theme of his address as he advised workers to move away from wasteful spending habits, plan for the future, and build savings to withstand potential hardships.
He cautioned that economic difficulties are inevitable and preparation is essential, adding that responsibility for overcoming challenges does not rest solely with government or institutions.
“Each of us has a role to play in the advancement of Antigua and Barbuda,” he said, encouraging citizens to reflect on their vision for the country’s future and their personal contribution toward achieving it.
Daniel concluded by calling for unity in the face of evolving challenges, emphasizing the continued importance of organized labour.
He also invited elected Members of Parliament to join the union in commemorating the country’s 75th Labour Day, noting that many of the rights enjoyed were secured through collective action by the labour movement.
