The Bank and General Workers Union (BGWU) wishes to update the public on the ongoing negotiations between the Union and Republic Bank Grenada Limited (RBGL).
We believe it is crucial to provide accurate information and clarify any misconceptions surrounding these negotiations.
The BGWU received a letter from RBGL on 14 July 2023, with a revised offer for salary increases covering the period from 1 January 2020, to 31 December 2023. The revised offer proposed a 9.25% increase, an improvement from RBGL’s initial offer of 6.25%.
Simultaneously, RBGL circulated an interoffice memorandum to all staff, suggesting that the Union had been unresponsive to prior communication on the matter. The Union emphasises we received the letter via email at midday on 14 July 2023, around the same time the memorandum was distributed. It is important to note that this claim by RBGL is misleading and seeks to create a false narrative regarding the Union’s commitment to the negotiation process.
RBGL’s revised offer includes the combination of their performance Merit system with the economic increase being negotiated. They assert that this combination would result in an overall increase of 16.25% for staff, surpassing the 12.25% proposed by the Minister. However, it is crucial to clarify that the Merit system is solely based on performance and controlled by RBGL. As a result, the majority of staff members do not qualify for a salary increase under this system.
BGWU reiterates that negotiations for a New Collective Agreement concluded on 13 March 2023 in keeping with the Collective Agreement between both parties and the Labour Relations Act 15 of 1999. For the Bank to re-engage in negotiations at this stage in contrary to the Collective Agreement.
The BGWU remains committed to reaching a fair and mutually beneficial agreement with RBGL.
Initially, the staff’s position was a 15% increase over 3 years. However, the BGWU accepted the Minister’s recommendation of a 12.25% increase over 4 years, demonstrating our willingness to compromise and reach an agreement that would be fair and mutually beneficial. Regrettably, RBGL has rejected the Minister’s recommendation and increased their offer from 6.25% to 9.25% over 4 years. We find this offer inadequate, considering the significant rise in the cost of living.
The BGWU apologises to our valued customers for any inconvenience caused as a result of the ongoing industrial action. We sincerely appreciate their support and understanding as we navigate through this challenging period. It is important to note that the decision to take industrial action comes with a financial sacrifice, as RBGL has chosen to dock the salaries of the staff during the strike period.
The BGWU remains steadfast in advocating for the rights of the working people of Grenada. We will not be swayed by RBGL’s management’s scare tactics and dissemination of misinformation. We firmly believe that honesty, fairness, and respect should form the basis for resolving this matter to benefit all stakeholders.
Joseph Mitchell
President General
BGWU
I am wondering how can individuals get the money they need for day to survival? People are unable to buy food or pay their bills! Why do we have to suffer while you fight with the Union? Please offer some alternative for those who cannot access their money at this time. You are hurting your customers who are literally unable to buy food while you negotiate. You are not thinking of your customers and their needs. I am a pensioner, , and I literally have no other income besides what comes to your bank which I cannot access. What on earth should I do?
When the shoe is on the other foot then reality strikes.