‘Slavish approach’

General Secretary of the National Workers Union (NWU), Granville Valentine, has condemned the poor working conditions experienced by some hotel employees, describing them as a “slavish approach” and urging legislative intervention to put an end to these practices.

“We at the NWU stand ready to defend the rights and justice of workers at Royalton Hotel and across the hotel industry,” Valentine told The Gleaner.

Valentine’s comments follow recent industrial action by workers at the Royalton Negril hotel in Westmoreland, who protested against low wages and substandard working conditions.

He pointed out the irony in an industry with great wealth that continues to treat workers poorly.

“It is strange that one of the richest industries has some of the poorest workers and working conditions. As leaders, and as a society, we must do more to assist these workers,” he said.

Valentine highlighted the lack of job security, with employees often on short-term contracts that deny them stability or a pathway to renewal. “There is no job security at all. Contracts range from three to nine months, the longest with a fixed end and no option for renewal. These workers are left with no choice but to accept whatever treatment is given to them,” he said.

“The treatment of these workers is unacceptable. The working conditions are unacceptable. The trade union movement stands with them, ready to advocate for fair treatment and job security,” Valentine added. He called for legislation to address the prevalence of short-term contracts, ensuring fair practices are upheld.

Valentine argued that the current pay scale for many hotel workers, ranging from $200 to $400 per hour, is not a livable wage.

“We need livable wages for these workers. They deserve to be paid fairly, and we are calling on the authorities to address this issue. We are willing to come to the table in defence of these workers, lending our voices and experience to improve their conditions and help ensure a prosperous tourism industry,” the trade unionist said.

He emphasised the disparity between hotel owners and workers, with owners profiting greatly while workers struggle to provide for their families. “It’s unfair that the owners flourish while the dedicated workers cannot afford basic necessities,” he said.

‘CANNOT STAND BY’

Valentine criticised the fact that some workers only receive minimum wage, leaving them unable to meet their essential needs, “meanwhile, we cut ribbons, smile, and remain comfortable as expatriates exploit our working class”.

He called the situation “sad” and insisted that a stand must be taken, starting with Royalton, to ensure fair treatment.

Valentine also urged his trade union colleagues to rally in support of hotel workers.

“We, as leaders of this society, must play a more integral role in securing fair treatment for these workers,” he said, adding that hotel employees deserve livable wages and the means to afford basic necessities.

“History will judge us harshly if we continue to let thousands of workers suffer in such a wealthy industry. What is happening is a ‘slavish approach’ towards these employees – trained, qualified individuals who cannot even afford bus fare to get home after late hours or on holidays,” he stated.

Calling on the Labour Advisory Council (LAC) at the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Valentine urged the council to step in, emphasising that Jamaica should not only be known for its beauty but also for the fair treatment of its workforce.

editorial@gleanerjm.com