ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, Mar 9, CMC- The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) Monday, said it remains committed to “constructive dialogue and a fair resolution of all outstanding matters” through the appropriate legal and industrial relations channels, as employees at the utility company walked off their jobs over increased salary demands.

The workers, represented by the Antigua and Barbuda Trades and Labour Union (AT&LU)  are calling for a 10 per cent wage increase, improved pension arrangements, and action on other labour-related concerns. The union has made no public statement so far on the industrial action by the workers.

But in a statement, the APUA, the main provider of electricity, water, and telecommunications, said it wanted to place on record that it “has continued to engage the AT&LU in good faith on all matters affecting employees.

“Discussions remain ongoing in relation to issues such as the Collective Bargaining Agreement and other longstanding matters. The Authority submitted counter proposals to the union in December 2025 and continues to await a response,” it added.

The APUA said that it “is closely monitoring the situation and has taken steps to maintain the delivery of essential services to the public.

“The Labour Code (1975), under Section K19, recognises the right to strike in Antigua and Barbuda as part of the country’s industrial relations framework. However, this right is subject to specific legal limitations where essential services are concerned,”  the APUA said.

It said that it falls within the category of essential services as outlined in the Essential Services Act and that the Authority is responsible for services that are fundamental to the health, safety, and wellbeing of the nation.

“Labour relations within these sectors are governed by the Essential Services Act (2008), which establishes the framework for dispute resolution and industrial relations in these critical areas.

“Article 4 of the Act expressly prohibits industrial action by workers employed in services listed within the Essential Services Schedule. Any strike action undertaken within these services would therefore fall outside of the provisions of the law.”

The APUA said that it  “remains committed to constructive dialogue and a fair resolution of all outstanding matters through the appropriate legal and industrial relations channels”and “will continue to act in the best interest of its employees, customers, and the nation while ensuring that essential services remain as stable and reliable as possible”.