This landmark ceremony was attended by Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Hon. Philip J. Pierre, marking the first time in Saint Lucia’s history that a sitting Prime Minister has been physically present for the signing of such agreements.

The agreements were signed between the Government Negotiating Team (GNT) and the following unions and staff associations:

Saint Lucia Civil Service Association (CSA)

-Saint Lucia Fire Service Association

-Saint Lucia Medical and Dental Association

-Saint Lucia Nurses Association

-Saint Lucia Teachers Union (SLTU)

-Vieux Fort General and Dock Workers Union

-Board of Governors at Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC), represented by CSA and SLTU

The GNT, appointed by Cabinet, was tasked with negotiating 22 agreements over two trienniums. Negotiations began in December 2023 with a strategic engagement of all stakeholders, including a comprehensive economic presentation by the Department of Finance.

Salary increases agreed upon for the triennium April 1, 2022 – March 31, 2025 are:

-2% increase effective April 1, 2022

-2% increase effective April 1, 2023

-2% increase effective April 1, 2024

For the upcoming triennium April 1, 2025 – March 31, 2028, the following increases were negotiated:

-2% increase effective April 1, 2025

-2% increase effective April 1, 2026

-3% increase effective April 1, 2027

Beyond salary increases, the agreements introduced progressive new clauses that expand benefits for public officers and enhanced working conditions, including:

-Payment to teachers for marking and submitting Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) School-Based Assessments (SBAs)

-Compensation for temporary teachers reporting for August preparation week

-Extended maternity leave: Mothers may now apply for up to one additional month post-delivery

-Professional development commitments: A new framework for continuous training and education of medical professionals

This milestone is a testament to the Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening labor relations, empowering public servants, and ensuring accountability, transparency, and fiscal responsibility.

In response to the prime minister being present for the signing, Hon. Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte, Minister for Labor remarked, “You are part of history today. This has never happened before, and it marks a turning point in how we approach negotiations—with transparency, collaboration, and respect.”

The event reflects a renewed era of cooperation and mutual respect between the Government of Saint Lucia and the dedicated workers who serve the nation daily.

Press Release by the Saint Lucia Labour Party