Former LIAT SVG workers still waiting for compensation

by Kirby Jackson

The Vincentian workers of the now defunct LIAT 1974 limited are hoping that Prime Minister, Ralph Gonsalves will give them the perfect National Workers’ Day
gift- their owed severance pay!

As the new entity, LIAT 2020 welcomed their two new jets in Antigua last Tuesday April 23, 2024, amidst much fanfare, representative the 46 former LIAT employees, Jerry Howard said they are saddened that since their last meeting with Prime Minister Gonsalves last July, they have not received any traction with respect
to their outstanding payments.

“We have been patient and trying to go through the diplomatic process, but my colleagues and I are wondering if we are being taken seriously,” Howard who headed the LIAT Workers Union said.

When SEARCHLIGHT spoke to Howard he said he was happy for his Barbados and St Lucian former colleagues who have been compensated by their various governments but, he was a bit perturbed that since last year’s meeting with Gonsalves, no response has been forthcoming.

Howard said that the transition has been varied for his colleagues. Some are doing okay, others not as good as in their LIAT days, but everyone is moving on. However, the outstanding money is what they have earned and it will bring tremendous closure for them and their families.

Howard told SEARCHLIGHT that when we spoke to him, he and his team were in the process of penning a letter to the Prime Minister expressing their frustration and requesting a settlement of the issue, emphasising the significance of the month of May as it regards labour in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

He re-emphasised that his team’s effort is in no way politically motivated, but rather churns from the bowels of justice, as he and his colleagues are only asking for what they deserve and have worked tirelessly for.

LIAT 1974 limited fully wrapped up operations on January 24, this year, making way for the new entity, LIAT 2020.