Barbados Labour Minister concerned about the planned closure of Berger Paints.

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC-Labour Minister Colin Jordan has raised concerns about the planned closure of Berger Paints Barbados Ltd, warning of the potential impact on 44 employees and questioning whether meaningful consultations can take place if the decision is already final.

Jordan said the impending shutdown, scheduled for April 24, was troubling beyond the legal implications, particularly in a small economy such as Barbados.

“Sending home workers or shutting down operations should not be the first or preferred course of action in small economies and small countries like ours. It is not the Bajan way,” he said.

The minister acknowledged that business viability and profitability are important considerations, but noted that he had seen no information indicating that the company was operating at a loss. He stressed that good corporate citizenship requires serious consideration of the workers who contribute to building value for business owners.

Jordan disclosed that the Chief Labour Officer was informed by letter on February 24 of the company’s intention to cease operations, with consultations set to begin on March 3. The company has indicated it will honour all obligations to employees under Barbados’ laws.

However, the minister questioned whether the six-week consultation period mandated by law could be meaningful if a final decision had already been taken.

“The law requires six weeks of consultation. Good practice and legal rulings suggest and mandate that the consultation must be meaningful. I am not sure how meaningful consultation can be if a decision has already been made and if it appears to be written in stone,” he said. “On the legal side, therefore, my concern is that the announcement may tarnish the ability of the company and the trade union representing the workers to have meaningful consultations.”

Jordan also underscored the role of trade unions as legitimate representatives of workers in Barbados and said employers must respect that function.

“Trade unions must be allowed to do their work of representing workers. We will accept no less from any employer in this country. We expect Berger Paints and all other employers in Barbados to do right by our country and by the workers who build and maintain their establishments. My ministry will continue to monitor this situation very closely,” he added.