ST. GEORGE’S, GRENADA, February 23 – The Caribbean Congress of Labour (CCL) has strongly condemned the Grenada government for what it calls “unacceptable interference” in the affairs of the Grenada Public Workers’ Union (GPWU), following demands issued by the Cabinet Secretary before releasing union dues.

In a letter dated January 17, 2025, Cabinet Secretary Carvel Lett informed the GPWU that before releasing the increased dues—approved by union members at their 2024 Annual General Meeting—the union must provide evidence of the meeting, including the attendance register, as well as proof of consultations held with public officers regarding the dues increase.

The CCL has slammed these demands, calling them an overreach and a direct violation of the union’s autonomy.

“Trade unions have the fundamental right to manage their internal affairs without government interference,” the regional body declared.

“This move by the Dickon Mitchell administration undermines international labor standards and the principles of freedom of association.”

The controversy was a key issue at the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government, where CCL President André Lewis and General Secretary Michael Annisette met with Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell.

According to the CCL, assurances were given that the withheld dues would be released without conditions.

However, a subsequent press release from the Office of the Prime Minister directed GPWU members to confirm their stance on the increased dues by signing “yes” or “no” on a circular to be returned by Monday, February 24, 2025.

“This latest action is a blatant and inappropriate attempt to interfere in the internal affairs of the GPWU,” the CCL said in a statement late Friday.

The labor body demands that the government immediately release the dues and cease further interfering in the GPWU’s democratic processes.

The GPWU notified the government of the fee increase on January 1, 2025.

Under the new structure, members earning up to $2,000 monthly will contribute a flat $20 fee, while those earning above that threshold will pay 1% of their salary.

The government had indicated its commitment to implementing the new deductions but required workers to acknowledge the change by signing the circular before the end of February.

“We stand in full solidarity with the GPWU and expect the government to uphold its commitment to workers’ rights and trade union freedoms,” the CCL stated.