NATUC has formally written to the Prime Minister, calling for the ratification of ILO Convention No. 189 on Decent Work for Domestic Workers.
It is also calling for an introduction of the reforms necessary to make its protections a reality.
NATUC says while domestic workers already benefit from certain labour protections, these do not remove the serious gaps in their access to the industrial-relations system.
Of particular concern is their exclusion under the definition of worker in the Industrial Relations Act, Chap. 88:01.
NATUC says this exclusion must be addressed, along with meaningful legislative reform to ensure effective enforcement and access to representation, collective bargaining, dispute resolution and appropriate remedies when employment rights are violated.
Specifically, it is calling on the Government to:
- Publicly commit to ratifying ILO Convention No. 189 and publish a definite timetable for ratification and implementation.
- Begin meaningful tripartite consultation, involving NATUC, NUDE, the recognised trade union movement, employers and other relevant stakeholders.
- Review and reform the Industrial Relations Act and other relevant legislation to address provisions that exclude or disadvantage domestic workers.
- Ensure effective access to labour rights and protections, including fair employment conditions, representation, social protection and remedies for violations.
