Dominica to Host Caribbean Public Service Association Conference in July
Dominica is poised to host the Caribbean Public Services Association (CPSA) Conference from 17 to 21 July 2025, uniting over 100 delegates and observers from across the region. The annual conference is crucial for discussing labour rights, public sector reforms, and regional collaboration among trade unions representing government employees.
According to Thomas Letang, General Secretary of the Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU), preparations are underway to ensure a successful event. He emphasised that hosting the conference will allow Dominica’s public sector workers to engage directly with their Caribbean counterparts on common issues such as salary negotiations, working conditions, and pension reforms.
This is a significant event for Dominica, not just for public sector workers but for the country as a whole. It will allow us to showcase our island while addressing critical matters affecting workers across the region.
Thomas Letang, General Secretary of the Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU)
The CPSA conference rotates annually among member states, with past editions in countries like Saint Lucia, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago. Dominica’s hosting of the event after over a decade, last held in 2011, reflects its steadfast commitment to fostering regional labour dialogue.
Key Themes and Expectations
This year’s conference is expected to tackle several pressing issues affecting the public service, including:
- Public sector wages and reclassification efforts
- Labour laws and workers’ rights in the Caribbean
- The impact of economic policies on government workers
- Pension reforms and retirement benefits
- The role of unions in safeguarding job security
Additionally, the event will feature presentations from industry experts, discussions on climate resilience in the workplace, and workshops aimed at strengthening union leadership and negotiation skills.
Beyond policy discussions, the conference will also have social and cultural activities, allowing visiting delegates to experience Dominica’s natural beauty, cuisine, and hospitality.
Economic and Regional Significance
Hosting the CPSA Conference is expected to boost Dominica’s tourism and hospitality sector, as hotels, restaurants, and transportation services will see an influx of visitors. Additionally, the country will benefit from regional media exposure, reinforcing its role as a key player in Caribbean labour affairs.
With tensions escalating over the ongoing salary negotiations between the DPSU and the government, the conference is also expected to draw increased scrutiny of Dominica’s labour policies. Local union leaders aim to utilise the platform to advocate for greater government accountability and express their concerns regarding the delayed wage increases and reclassification efforts.
As preparations continue, all eyes will be on Dominica, which will welcome public sector representatives from across the Caribbean for what is expected to be a crucial gathering for regional labour advocacy.
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