Bahia Principe hotel workers on edge over disappointing salary increase

Workers at the Bahia Principe Grand Hotel in Runaway Bay, St Ann, are threatening to strike on Monday after being displeased with their salary increase. 

The disgruntled workers went on strike last week, pressing for improved working conditions and better salaries. They were offered up to 15 per cent increase in wages, however, some say that raise was not reflected in their salaries, while others were not happy with the amount received. 

“They promised us 13 per cent and based on what our salaries look like, it doesn't seem as if we get 13 per cent, we get about six per cent” a maintenance worker told The Gleaner. 

The frustrated worker said he is paid an average of $37,000 fortnightly, and participated in the protest last week because he wanted a more liveable wage. 

“This is really bad because we were looking forward to that, my last pay day look better than this pay day,” he said. 

The Gleaner understands that some workers did not turn up to work this afternoon, while some did not show up for training. 

The Gleaner sought a comment from the hotel's management, but was told that the management is unaware of the impending strike. The media were directed to speak with the workers instead. 

The discontented workers were seen huddled together, and expressing their disappointment. 

“We are dissatisfied with our salaries this fortnight because they promised us increase and we did not receive it, instead we are seeing a decrease. We were promised like 13 per cent on our basic pay and 10 per cent gratuity, but that is not reflected on our payslip,” the worker said. 

The worker said a meeting to discuss the salary increase was planned for today, but no member of the management showed up. 

The worker noted, however, that their union representative is aware of the situation, and is investigating. 

Another equally upset worker said only a $325 increase was reflected in her salary. She is paid a daily rate of $2500. 

“Wi get pay but it coming like a decrease…$300, wah can go suh?” she asked. 

“Dat is cigarette money," another worker chimed in. 

There has been a wave of industrial action by tourism workers recently, forcing the Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett to intervene. 

The workers are protesting their working conditions and low salaries.

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