The Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions (W.I.C.L.U.) Met with Central Government Minister of Labour on Thursday. The meeting was the first between the minister and the umbrella organization for unions on St. Maarten, Statia and Saba.
Matters discussed were; the merger of the two Labour Departments here on St. Maarten, the training of the staff of the two Labour Departments in seminars and workshops in order to make them ready for the new country St. Maarten so that, they function in accordance to International Labour Standards and treaties. The Unions also voice their concerns about the readiness of St. Maarten for 10/10/2010. The Unions asked about the appointment of a mediator for St. Maarten. The Chamber of Unions members also questioned the minister as to whether or not he was willing to give full support to establish a proper functioning Labour inspection section at the Labour Office. The minister explained that, he was already working to upgrade the proper functioning of his department and will talk soon to the Island about the merger of the Labour Offices.
The Unions deems the meeting encouraging.