Peaceful Assembly
Criminal attorneys voice alarm over justice system integrity
On 13th November, at least two dozen attorneys peacefully protested outside the Supreme Court building, advocating for the modernisation of the justice system and the implementation of accountability measures. This action comes amid growing concerns over prolonged delays in judgments and the need for improved access to parking facilities for court attendees.
Some members of the Barbados Bar Association (BBA) who were engaged in the protest had initially carried placards with slogans such as “De Registrar don’t give a park” and “Babylon fly de gate”. But soon, they abandoned the placards after police instructed them to cease the display due to lack of permission from the Commissioner of Police.
A few hours later, Martie Garnes, convenor of the Criminal Law Committee of the BBA, announced that attorneys would have designated parking. This decision came after lengthy discussions between BBA President Kaye Williams and her team, and Registrar of the Supreme Court Sharon Deane and her delegation. The attorneys had refused to work in the courts until adequate parking was provided.
UWU members stage protest against BRA
On 15th and 16th November, 106 Unity Workers Union (UWU) members staged a sick-out to protest several grievances against the Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA). According to the UWU’s General Secretary, Caswell Franklyn, BRA’s management refused to engage in talks with them. UWU comprises the largest unionised contingent within BRA, representing approximately 36 per cent of the workforce. The members will continue action until their concerns are acknowledged.
Winston Scott Polyclinic Worker Walkout
On 19th December, healthcare professionals and staff of the Winston Scott Polyclinic walked off the job to protest poor environmental conditions. Following a ten-day closure, nurses and non-medical staff resumed their duties. Their return was delayed from the original schedule set due to pending remedial tasks aimed at addressing prevailing unsanitary conditions and other environmental impediments affecting their work.
However, after a meeting and inspection of the Jemmotts Lane, St Michael medical facility on 17th December conducted by representatives from both the union and the health ministry, approval was granted for the staff to return to work. The staff expressed satisfaction with the efforts made to rectify the issues that had previously hindered their work.