Negril musicians stand united during labour dispute at popular hotel

The music community in Negril, Westmoreland, has rallied together to support the Jamaica Federation of Musicians and Affiliates Union (JFMAU) in their ongoing labour dispute for the resident band at a popular Spanish hotel in the area.

In a show of solidarity, local musicians have come together to boycott accepting bookings with the persons involved, in order to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of the hotel’s musicians, who have been engaged in negotiations with management to improve their working conditions.

“The union’s intent is to secure a memorandum of understanding that would establish fair standards and working conditions for the union members. The executive is resolute to come to an amicable solution in the matter and has met with the parties involved to establish their position and gain clarity on the matter,” President of the JFMAU Lowell Lawson said in a statement to the media.

“We have consulted our lawyers and are confident that our actions are justified, and we are prepared to employ the full protections within the law. Currently, the union is in talks with the ministries of Tourism, Labour, and Entertainment to further discuss how some of these provisions can be protected by Parliament,” Lawson added.

He noted that Jamaica’s tourism industry “has long been perceived as a haven of sun, sea, and sand, often overshadowing the rich cultural heritage and music that the country has to offer (Stupart & Shipley, 2012)”.

However, recent strike action by Negril’s musicians and hotel workers has shone a spotlight on the need to recognise and support the contributions of locals who are integral to the tourism experience. Lawson extended an invitation from the JFMAU to all musicians and affiliates to “stand with us as we continue to fight against the unfair practices and conditions”.

Lawson said that it is imperative that steps are taken to address these issues and ensure that all professionals are given equal opportunities to succeed in their respective fields. He made a plea for the implementation of “fair and transparent hiring practices”.