Mitchell praises Grenada trade unions but blasts ‘disruptive’ leaders

The prime minister of Grenada has praised the role of trade unions in Grenada’s economy but warned that some union bosses could hinder the island’s fragile economy.

Keith Mitchell’s government remains at odds with unions after months of negotiations over a second one-off payment to public sector workers.

The latest offer was $650 to each worker, which has been rejected. WIC News understands that the unions want closer to $2,000 per person.

Although he didn’t name anyone, he accused some senior union figures of attempting to disrupt government services.

Rachel Roberts, the leader of the Public Workers Union, is believed to be among those the prime minister is unhappy with. She has been accused of leading a campaign against the current administration.

“Sad enough it has been rejected, we can understand that but low and behold, an attempt was made to disrupt the services of government,” Mitchell said earlier this weekend.

“You say you want more money but you are going on the job to tell the workers in the Revenue Department and other areas not to collect revenue, leave the work but you want more revenue.”

‘Backwards step’

WIC News has reached out to the de facto opposition party, the New Democratic Congress, for comment on this dispute but has not received a response.

Earlier this year, the government paid $1,000 to each public officer.

This equated amounted to $7.2 million from the public purse, they said.

If the government were to accept the $2,000 request from the unions the state may fall foul of fiscal responsibility laws.

Under that legislation, spending on wages during a given year are capped.

“We cannot reach where we are and go backwards,” said Mitchell.

“Our children and grandchildren’s future must be protected.”