In a landmark development for tertiary education and industrial relations in Grenada, the T A Marryshow Community College (TAMCC) and the Grenada Union of Teachers (GUT) on Wednesday, 24 December 2025 signed their very first collective bargaining agreement, marking a historic milestone for lecturers at the institution.
The agreement, which covers the period 1 January 2026 to 31 December 2028, establishes for the first time a separate and formalised bargaining framework specifically for lecturers employed at TAMCC. This development represents a significant step forward in recognising and strengthening the rights, working conditions, and professional standing of faculty members at the college.
Two key documents were signed during the ceremony: “The Terms and Conditions of Employment for Faculty in the Bargaining Unit” and “The Wages for Grenada Union of Teachers (GUT) Membership of the Faculty Employed by the T A Marryshow Community College.” Together, these agreements outline salary structures as well as fringe benefits and other employment conditions applicable to lecturers over the three-year period.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by members of both TAMCC and GUT, underscoring the collaborative spirit that guided the negotiation process. Representing TAMCC were Chairperson of the College Council Dr Wendy Grenade, and Samantha Antoine-Purcell, Council Member. The Grenada Union of Teachers was represented by its President General Jude Bartholomew, and Melissa St Rose, General Secretary.
The agreements were signed in the presence of Grenada’s Labour Commissioner Sparkle Grenade-Courtney whose attendance highlighted the national significance of the occasion and the importance of sound labour relations within the education sector.
TAMCC noted that the successful conclusion of negotiations resulted from meaningful dialogue and mutual commitment from both parties. Special thanks are extended to Dr John Telesford, Deputy Principal of TAMCC, for his contributions to the development of the fringe benefits package, as well as Learie Barry, member of the College Council, for his role in the development of the wages structure. Special thanks are also extended to the Cabinet and Government of Grenada for their support and commitment to the completion and execution of the collective bargaining agreement.
This historic agreement is widely seen as a positive precedent for collective bargaining within Grenada. It not only provides greater clarity and structure for lecturers’ benefits but also reinforces TAMCC’s commitment to fostering a fair, transparent, and supportive working environment for its academic staff.
Looking ahead, TAMCC anticipates that this agreement will contribute to greater productivity, enhanced accountability, and measurable value for money across the institution, as lecturers are empowered to perform at their highest professional standard. Through this collaborative framework, TAMCC advances its mission of academic excellence, sound governance, and sustainable development, while strengthening industrial harmony and reinforcing its role as Grenada’s premier tertiary education institution.
TAMCC
