Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean

Transcription

1 ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean 6 Stanmore Avenue, P. O. Box 1201, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. Telephone: or Fax: ilocarib@ilo.org Web site WWWw.ilo.org /caribbean S / Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS

2 Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean ILO DECENT WORK TEAM AND OFFICE FOR THE CARIBBEAN HIGHLIGHTS

3 Copyright International Labour Organization 2014 First published 2014 Publications of the International Labour Office enjoy copyright under Protocol 2 of the Universal Copyright Convention. Nevertheless, short excerpts from them may be reproduced without authorization, on condition that the source is indicated. For rights of reproduction or translation, application should be made to ILO Publications (Rights and Permissions), International Labour Office, CH-1211 Geneva 22, Switzerland, or by pubdroit@ilo.org. The International Labour Office welcomes such applications. Libraries, institutions and other users registered with reproduction rights organizations may make copies in accordance with the licences issued to them for this purpose. Visit to find the reproduction rights organization in your country. Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean 2014 The designations employed in ILO publications, which are in conformity with United Nations practice, and the presentation of material therein do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the International Labour Office concerning the legal status of any country, area or territory or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers. The responsibility for opinions expressed in signed articles, studies and other contributions rests solely with their authors, and publication does not constitute an endorsement by the International Labour Office of the opinions expressed in them. Reference to names of firms and commercial products and processes does not imply their endorsement by the International Labour Office, and any failure to mention a particular firm, commercial product or process is not a sign of disapproval. ILO publications and electronic products can be obtained through major booksellers or ILO local offices in many countries, or direct from ILO Publications, International Labour Office, CH-1211 Geneva 22, Switzerland. Catalogues or lists of new publications are available free of charge from the above address, or by pubvente@ilo.org Visit our web site: Cover photo: Martin Alves Design and printing by the International Training Centre of the ILO, Turin Italy

4 c itable of ontents Table of contents LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS INTRODUCTION ii iv Unemployment, economic growth and poverty eradication, Skills and training The green economy 1 Unemployment, Economic Growth and Poverty Eradication 2 Skills and Training 5 The Green Economy 6 Social protection and inclusion 8 HIV and AIDS 10 Occupational Safety and Health and Environment 11 Persons with Disabilities 12 Child Labour 13 Social Security 13 Formalization of the informal economy 15 International labour standards 18 Social dialogue and tripartism 22 Social Dialogue Employers Activities Workers Activities 28 Policy coherence 30

5 List of abbreviations ACI Area of Critical Importance DEF Dominica Employers Federation ACS Association of Caribbean States DOL Department of Labour ABEF ABPSA ABWU AGM Antigua and Barbuda Employers Federation Antigua and Barbuda Public Service Association Antigua and Barbuda Workers Union Annual General Meeting DWA DWCP ECATT ECLAC Decent Work Agenda Decent Work Country Programme Employers Consultative Association of Trinidad and Tobago Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean ATLU Antigua Trades and Labour Union EDF European Development Fund BCCEC Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation EESE Enabling Environment for Sustainable Enterprises CAGI CAMEO Consultative Association of Guyanese Industry Ltd Caribbean Academy for Management of Employers Organizations EPA EU GB Economic Partnership Agreement European Union Governing Body CARICOM Caribbean Community GEF Grenada Employers Federation CASROC CCL Caribbean Association of Regulators and Cooperative Societies Caribbean Congress of Labour GTUC HASC Grenada Trades Union Council HIV and AIDS Advisory and Sustainability Centre ii Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS CDB CDWN CEC CGEI CICC CINTERFOR Training CLMIS COHSOD COTED CRIP CSM CSME CVQ Caribbean Development Bank Caribbean Domestic Workers Network Caribbean Employers Confederation Green Economy Initiative in the Caribbean Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce Inter-American Centre for Knowledge Development in Vocational Caribbean Labour Market Information System Council of Human and Social Development Council of Trade and Economic Development Community Road Improvement Programme Caribbean Single Market Caribbean Single Market and Economy Caribbean Vocational Qualification IADB IGDS IFRS ILC ILGO Organizations ILO IOE ITUC JCTU JEF JHWU LCDS LFS LMIS Inter-American Development Bank Institute for Gender and Development Studies International Financial Reporting Standards International Labour Conference Latin American Institute for the Management of Employers International Labour Organization/Office International Organization of Employers International Trade Union Confederation Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions Jamaica Employers Federation Jamaica Household Workers Union Low Carbon Development Strategy Labour Force Survey Labour Market Information System

6 LSMC PANCAP PEPFAR PHCO PIOJ PPP MLC MNEs MPM MOU NATUC NCTUB NMT NTA Living Standards Measurement Committee Pan Caribbean Partnership Against HIV and AIDS President s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief HIV Caribbean Office of the Pan American Health Organization Planning Institute of Jamaica Public Private Partnerships Maritime Labour Convention Multinational Enterprises Multi-Dimensional Approach to Poverty Measurement Memorandum of Understanding National Trade Union Centre of Trinidad and Tobago National Congress of Trade Unions of the Bahamas Non-Metropolitan Territory National Training Agencies Industrial Training of Brazil SLEF SIDS SYMAPRO SIYB SMEs Saint Lucia Employers Federation Small Island Developing States System for Measurement and Improvement of Productivity Start and Improve Your Business Small and Micro Enterprises NVQ OCTs OECS OPEC OSEC OSH OSHE RBSA SCORE SENAI National Vocational Qualifications Overseas Caribbean Territories Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries One Stop Employment Centre Occupational Safety and Health Occupational Safety and Health and Environment Regular Budget Supplementary Allocation Sustaining Competitive and Responsible Enterprises Serviço Nacional de Aprendizagem Industrial (National Service for iii List of abbreviations

7 iv Introduction Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS Over the past five years, the International Labour Organization (ILO) has intensified its advocacy on the fundamental role of the workplace in harmonizing the social, economic and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. 1 The ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean (ILO DWT-POS) covers twenty-two countries (13 member States and 9 Non- Metropolitan Territories) which are a distinct group of developing countries facing specific social, economic and environmental vulnerabilities known as Small Island Developing States (SIDS) was declared, by the United Nations General Assembly as the International Year of SIDS a year dedicated to highlighting both the progress and ongoing challenges faced by SIDS. At the Inter-regional Preparatory Meeting for the Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States, consensus was reached on priority areas for the 1 Report V - Sustainable development, decent work and green jobs, ILC 102 nd Session, p.2 2 See Small-Islands-Bigger-Stakes.pdf sustainable development of SIDS. Of the agreed areas of SIDS priorities, there are a number of themes that are closely linked to the ILO s mandate: Unemployment, economic growth and poverty eradication Skills and training The Green Economy Social Protection and inclusion Formalization of the Informal Economy Green jobs, according to the ILO, are central to sustainable development and respond to the global challenges of environmental protection, economic development and social inclusion. 3 The ILO promotes the greening of the labour market by engaging and enabling governments, employers and workers to act as catalysts in the creation of decent employment opportunities, enhanced resource efficiency and the 3 ILO:

8 ILO Caribbean development of low-carbon sustainable societies. In an effort to build international policy coherence the ILO has partnered with UN and other international agencies on the development of common positions and policies over the years. The Green Jobs Initiative is an ILO partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) and International Organization of Employers (IOE), designed to place at the centre of policy-making, the wellbeing of women and men, justice and the environment. 4 The UNEP defines a green economy as, one that results in improved human well-being and social equity, while significantly reducing environmental risks and ecological scarcities. 5 In 2013, a policy framework for a just transition to a greener economy was developed as part of the set of conclusions on sustainable development, decent work and green jobs and adopted by the International Labour Conference (ILC). 6 The process of transitioning to a greener economy faces varying levels of complexity in the developing world and is usually compartmentalized for ease of context and analysis, as poverty reduction, sustainable development and environmental governance. The concept of sustainable development, one of the prominent components of the Millennium Development Goals, is based on a number of fundamental principles that are endorsed by international organizations and bodies. 7 Like many of its counterparts in international development the principles of equality, equity, fairness, integration and interdependence, are all deeply embedded in the foundation and structure of the ILO. The nexus between sustainable development and Decent Work was affirmed at the Rio +20, United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in The outcome document emphasizes both the need for a global strategy on youth and employment as well as the critical role of Decent Work in achieving sustainable development. 8 Making Decent Work Happen is enshrined in the region s developmental agenda and evidenced by the prioritization of the Decent Work Agenda in national implementation plans. 9 The four interrelated and mutually dependent pillars of the Decent Work Agenda (DWA): International Labour Standards, Employment, Social Protection and Social Dialogue form the basis for each of the 11 Decent Work Country Programmes (DWCPs) that have been implemented since 2008 in the countries and territories of the English- and Dutch-speaking Caribbean. 10 This report aims to highlight the achievements and advancements of the Caribbean region from within dual contexts: firstly, a presentation of how the strategic and technical support of the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean (ILO DWT- POS) is aligned with SIDS priorities on the promotion of regional sustainable development; and secondly, achievements under priority areas not specifically articulated under the SIDS priorities but which are vital to the implementation of the DWA in the Caribbean International Labour Standards, Social Dialogue and Tripartism and Policy Coherence. The ILO DWT-POS reaffirms its commitment to the Caribbean region s unwavering pursuit of sustainable development through dynamic, innovative, inclusive and most-importantly, demand-driven interventions and continues to engage governments, employers and workers in policy and programme dialogue with a view to enabling the creation of decent, high-value-added jobs that benefit from full access to basic labour rights. 11 Furthermore, the Office looks forward to strengthening and extending multidisciplinary partnerships within the UN System and with other developmental stakeholders in order to advance its contribution to the sustainable development of the region through the promotion of economic and social policies that enable full and productive employment. Giovanni di Cola Director, ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean v 4 See WCMS_213842/lang--en/index.htm 5 tabid/29784/default.aspx 6 See 7 See documents/1001rio_20-rev2ing.pdf 8 See PDF/N pdf?OpenElement; paras 23 and 24 9 ILO: GB304-PFA_2(Rev). Strategic Policy Framework See Annex 1 11 See outcome.pdf Inter-regional Preparatory Meeting for the Third International Conference on Smalls Island Developing States (SIDS), August 2013, Barbados Introduction

9 Unemployment, economic growth and poverty eradication Skills and training The green economy Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS ITCILO/G. Palazzo

10 The global economic crisis of 2008 and 2009 and the recession which unfolded have worsened levels of unemployment in the Caribbean. Employment creation in the Caribbean continues to be a challenge of extreme urgency. The ILO DWT-POS has supported the region in the formulation of recovery and development strategies specifically through: effectively and competently designed labour market and employment policies that enable labour market actors to efficiently function for this, a reliable and accurate Labour Market Information System (LMIS) which provides relevant and conversant data is essential; enhanced employability through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) which allows entrance and re-entrance into the labour market; the integration of enterprise development frameworks; business development support for young and new entrepreneurs recognizing the significance of selfemployment as a viable alternative; social protection policies and Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) and HIV and AIDS work-related programmes. In July 2013, twenty-one Caribbean delegations headed by sixteen Ministers with responsibility for labour met in Port of Spain. The Meeting, The Caribbean and Labour 2013 and Beyond: Strengthening Decent Work for Development. Core decisions included: 1. The role of Ministries of Labour in promoting and advancing policy coherence with the aim of making Decent Work a central goal of national and regional development efforts; 2. The formalization and institutionalization of social dialogue at the national and regional levels; 3. The establishment and strengthening of Productivity Councils to promote productivity enhancement which will impact economic growth and job creation; 4. The creation of appropriate enabling environments to encourage movement from informal to formal employment and to foster innovation and productive work practices that strengthen regional competitiveness; 5. The establishment of statistical mechanisms to produce internationally comparable productivity indicators to allow monitoring of productive growth. 12 goldbany 1Unemployment, economic growth and poverty eradication - Skills and training - 12 ILO: Conclusions 8 th Meeting of Caribbean Ministers of Labour, July P4 The green economy

11 HIGHLIGHTS New national Labour Market Information System (LMIS) launched 2 Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS Unemployment, Economic Growth and Poverty Eradication Labour Market Information generated and disseminated The Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) and Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) in collaboration with the ILO conducted the School-to-Work Transition Survey (SWTS) in Jamaica from February to April Jamaica was one of four countries in Latin America and the Caribbean that implemented a SWTS under the framework of the Work4Youth Project. Data on the various challenges impacting Jamaican youth (between the ages of 15 and 24 years of age) in transitioning from the education system to the labour market was collected and analyzed. 13 A Stakeholders Workshop was convened in April 2014 to share the findings generated from the Survey. Overall, the findings highlighted the importance of aligning the education and training system with the needs of employers and young job seekers and emphasized the need for increased avenues for technical and vocational skills training in Jamaica. A second phase to explore those activities further is being implemented from August Harmonized Labour Force Survey (LFS) developed The Secretariat of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), with the support of the United Nations Children s Fund (UNICEF) Eastern Caribbean Area Office facilitated the fourth Meeting of the OECS Living Standards Measurement Committee (LSMC) in April 2014, in Barbados. 14 The LSMC is an advisory body which contributes to the production of accurate harmonized data and data analysis for labour, poverty and inequality measurement across the OECS countries. The ILO with the OECS developed a harmonized Labour Force Survey (LFS) for all OECS countries. The core discussions of the Meeting were advancing the Sustainable Household Data Collection Programme for the Measurement of Living Standards and the Multi-Dimensional Approach to Poverty Measurement (MPM) in the OECS. It was agreed that the LFS should be the core survey of a multi-annual survey programme in the OECS countries. It was also agreed that the MPM would be utilized to monitor and evaluate how poverty is evolving in the countries See reports/transitionjamaicanyouthworldwork_full.pdf 14 ILO: Caribbean Newslink. April June 2014; p The Multi-Dimensional Approach to Poverty Measurement (MPM) has two objectives: 1. to generate regular credible data to support the monitoring of different micro-dimensions to poverty; and 2. to develop an effective and innovative Employment services in Antigua and Barbuda have been strengthened through the implementation of a new national Labour Market Information System developed by the ILO. This new system facilitates the collection, management, reporting and analysis of labour market data and is a core feature of the Ministry of National Security and Labour s rebranded One Stop Employment Centre (OSEC). The OSEC was launched on 15 May 2014 and provides improved services for jobseekers as well as enhanced job-matching services for employers. Capacity of Caribbean LMIS Technical Task Force strengthened Members of the Caribbean Labour Market Information System (CLMIS) Technical Task Force are equipped to support the enhanced efficiency of Departments of Labour as a result of two training workshops conducted in May 2014 in Grenada and Saint Lucia. The workshops were facilitated by the OECS Secretariat, with support from the 10 th European Development Fund (EDF) and the ILO DWT-POS. The CLMIS Project contributes to the establishment of the OECS Economic Union as a single economic and financial space through the development of a harmonized policy, legislative, regulatory and administrative framework and the enhancement of the institutional capacity and export competitiveness of OECS economies. The CLMIS Technical Task Force performs a critical role in the regional implementation of the Project. 16 Apart from daily maintenance of the Department of Labour (DoL) computer network (which runs the server and website), System Administrators are responsible for supervising the use of CLMIS Software; ensuring the integrity of the system; producing output from the DoL databases and providing technical support. Recommendations for National youth employment policies formulated Senior officials of youth ministries and departments as well as leaders of national youth councils from 13 Caribbean countries participated in a Regional Seminar on Youth Employment entitled, Addressing the Employment Challenges of Caribbean Youth in Times of Crisis, in March 2012 in Saint Lucia. The Regional Seminar was convened by the Commonwealth Youth Programme Caribbean Centre and hosted by Saint Lucia s Ministry of Youth Development and Sports. The ILO provided specific technical support in the areas Employment Policy, Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Reforms and the Role of Small and Micro approach to national policy toward the achievement of poverty-reduction goals in the subregion. 16 ILO: Caribbean Newslink. April June 2014; p. 17 ILO Caribbean

12 ILO Caribbean Enterprises (SMEs) in job creation. The three-day policy dialogue concluded with regional acceptance that employment policies along with sound macro-economic policies should reflect a balanced synthesis of TVET, SME development, public sector investment and work programmes. A list of recommendations related to the design of National Employment Policies was framed. Knowledge and capacity on the Management and Functions of the Cooperatives Sector strengthened Regional: Members of the Caribbean Association of Regulators and Cooperative Societies (CASROC) met in June 2014 in The Bahamas for discussions on issues pertinent to efficient and effective regulation of Cooperatives. Consensus was reached on the formation of the Caribbean Network of Cooperative Regulators which is envisioned to support sustainable development and job creation through the monitoring of regulatory environments; development and regulation of youth cooperatives; capacity development regarding the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS); and the development of policies and programmes for the effective regulation of cooperatives. The ILO DWT-POS provided technical support and The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago were among the countries represented. The Bahamas: The capacity of 45 beneficiaries from the Cooperative Department, youth entrepreneurs and members of Credit Unions was strengthened in entrepreneurship and the use of the Cooperative Model as a viable alternative business option at a National Workshop on Youth Entrepreneurship and Cooperatives. The Workshop, which was held from October 2013, was facilitated by the ILO in response to a request for support from the Commissioner of Cooperatives, Government of The Bahamas. In March 2012, the importance of food security through sustainable linkages between agriculture and business was the focus of an Agri-business Cooperative Forum carried out by the Department of Cooperative Development with the support of the ILO DWT-POS. Barbados: Staff of the Cooperative Division, Ministry of Commerce and Trade as well as representatives of financial and non-financial Cooperatives benefited from a three-day capacity building intervention which focused on the role of Cooperatives as a sustainable response to the challenge of economic growth in Barbados. This training was held in March 2013 and was the result of a request from the Registrar of Cooperatives, consistent with Priority 3 of the Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) for Barbados. Topics included: Cooperatives and the ILO s Decent Work Agenda and Cooperatives and the Financial Crisis. 3 Unemployment, economic growth and poverty eradication - Skills and training - The green economy

13 4 ILO Caribbean Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS Dominica: Tripartite constituents benefited from capacity-building initiatives in both countries in July and December The training focused on Cooperatives and entrepreneurship. Furthermore, the mission in July 2012 also introduced a one day workshop on productivity since the need to improve productivity was highlighted by constituents as a major challenge. The System for Measurement and Improvement of Productivity (SYMAPRO) was introduced to reinforce the linkages between productivity and decent work. The workshops comprised of representatives from the private and cooperative sectors, Cooperative Division of the Ministry of Social Services, Community Development and Gender Affairs and Public Service Trade Union. The activities were all part of support provided during the International Year of Cooperatives in Grenada: Thirty-six participants were enabled through tools and resources, to use the Cooperatives Model as a means of job creation and the Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) programme as a means of self-employment. The Grenada Cooperative League for technical support in entrepreneurial knowledge and the management of Cooperatives and a five-day workshop was designed and conducted from March Guyana: In 2012 ILO DWT-POS delivered a presentation on Productivity in the Context of the Financial Crisis and Suggested Solutions, in response to a request for support from the Consultative Association of Guyanese Industry Ltd (CAGI) in line with Priority 4 of the DWCP for Guyana. As a follow-up to the presentation, a Training Workshop on the ILO Productivity Tools, System for Measurement and Improvement of Productivity (SYMAPRO) and Sustaining Competitive and Responsible Enterprises (SCORE) was conducted in October of the same year. Environment conducive to sustainable enterprises evaluated An Enabling Environment for Sustainable Enterprises (EESE) programme was implemented in Barbados over the period A complete work plan and logical framework, endorsed by the government, employers and workers organizations in Barbados, were the main outputs of the EESE Programme. Subsequently, the ILO s SIYB Programme was implemented in February 2013 and a Steering Committee consisting of social partners was established. 17 The EESE is based on the perspective that all enterprises operate within a political, social and economic context and are subject to regulatory and institutional constraints. ilo.org/empent/units/boosting-employment-through-smallenterprise-development/wcms_169675/lang--en/index.htm

14 ILO Caribbean Advocacy in favor of Multinational Enterprises (MNEs) initiated in Jamaica In response to a request from Jamaica for assistance with employment creation and skills training programmes, the ILO DWT-POS has designed and proposed an intervention that creates productive and decent jobs for youth and vulnerable groups in society through the promotion of the Tripartite Declaration of Principles concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy (MNE Declaration). The MNE Declaration was adopted by the ILO Governing Body (GB) in 1977 and offers guiding principles on employment training, conditions of work and industrial relations that encourage businesses to contribute to the development objectives of the country in which they are operating through a process of social dialogue. Its principles are supported by international labour conventions and recommendations. 18 The work will focus primarily on MNEs in Jamaica s tourism and hotel industry given their potential (and that of their value chains) for generating employment opportunities. Major interventions will include: research to understand the role of the MNEs in the hotel and tourism sector; awareness-raising to promote the MNE Declaration amongst constituents and key stakeholders; and highlevel policy and cross-sectoral tripartite-plus dialogue. Skills and Training Regional capacity to anticipate skills needs reinforced Skills development plays a crucial role in the productivity and sustainability of enterprises, improvement of working conditions and employability and the achievement of decent work. However, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) must first be relevant to market needs. Anticipating skills demands facilitates a reduction in skills gaps through needs analyses that ensure a match between available training and employment opportunities. 19 The ILO DWT-POS and the Inter-American Centre for Knowledge Development in Vocational Training (CINTERFOR), with the support of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) and the National Industrial Training Service of Brazil (SENAI) organized a workshop in May 2014 in Trinidad and Tobago. The Workshop was the result of strengthened South-South Cooperation through the 41 st Technical Committee Meeting of the ILO CINTERFOR held in Trinidad and Tobago in July The specific focus of the Training Workshop, entitled, Anticipating Skills Requirements in the Tourism Sector, was Occupational Trends and Emerging Demands. Fifteen participants from National 18 See lang--en/index.htm 19 ILO: Caribbean Newslink. April June 2014; p. 9 Training Agencies and TVET councils in Barbados, Belize, Jamaica, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sint Maarten, the Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago benefited from the training and have enhanced competencies in the use of methodologies and tools for identifying technological, occupational and organizational trends and their impacts on skills strategies and vocational training programmes. The Workshop will be followed by a 12-week virtual learning programme. Capacity to implement entrepreneurial training strengthened The ILO DWT-POS received a request from the Board of Industrial Training of Guyana to provide technical support in entrepreneurial training. This request was in line with Priority 2 of the DWCP for Guyana, Enhancement of Technical and Vocational Education and Training. 20 The Workshop, conducted in August 2013, resulted in the reinforced capacity of 25 trainers and Instructors. In Saint Lucia, 35 representatives of TVET Councils and National Centre for Persons with Disabilities were trained to implement entrepreneurial skills in the training curricula as an integral part of Technical Vocational and Education programmes. The training was conducted in September 2013 and is in line with the Priorities of the DWCP for Saint Lucia. Knowledge generated on the labour market impact of the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) and National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) In 2013 the ILO conducted a research study on the Labour Market Impact of the CVQ/NVQ in Belize, Guyana and Jamaica in order to determine: the hiring decisions of employers related to applicants with the CVQ/NVQ; effectiveness of the qualification framework; and the employment outcomes of graduates. The CVQ is aimed to facilitate the movement of certified skilled persons within CARICOM member States as a component part of the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME). 20 Decent Work Country Programme of Guyana, P Unemployment, economic growth and poverty eradication - Skills and training - The green economy

15 6 ITCILO/G. Palazzo Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS The Green Economy Green Economy Jobs Network established At its 37 th Special Meeting in September 2011, on Environment and Sustainable Development the Council of Trade and Economic Development (COTED) of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) endorsed the concept note on Advancing Caribbean States Sustainable Development Agenda through Green Economy Policies. The call for green economy transformation has been echoed multiple times throughout the region. It was agreed at the 2011 Meeting that the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) would lead the development of a Green Economy Initiative in the Caribbean (CGEI) in collaboration with the CARICOM Secretariat and its member states and with technical inputs from relevant regional and international organizations. The first regional event under the CGEI entitled, Green Economy as a Vehicle for Sustainable Development and Poverty Eradication in the Caribbean was held in June 2013 in Saint Lucia. This high-level conference provided an opportunity for the exchange of ideas, experiences and institutional innovations by bringing together policy-makers, civil society, academia and the private sector. It also enabled the creation of a regional Green Economy Network as a platform for sharing national experiences and further strengthening intra-caribbean and intra-sids cooperation. The ILO weighed in on the discussions through a presentation on the Green Jobs Programme.

16 while supporting the country s economy in accordance with Priority 1 of the DWCP for Guyana. Guyana s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS), launched in 2009 was one of three national developmental frameworks which influenced the development of its DWCP in Specific reference is made to the LCDS under Priority 1, the Creation of Green Jobs and Decent Work, which elaborates that ILO s support, will take the form of policy and institutional assessment and technical advice to identify potential areas for investment, employment and enterprise creation in a low-carbon economy. 22 Dialogue on Green Jobs and Green Economy advanced Twenty-four participants benefited from discussions on the promotion of Decent Work in the Green Economy; analysis of relevant policy frameworks such as adaptation and mitigation and their impact on the world of work; appraisals of best practices in Green Jobs development strategies and comparative reviews of Green Jobs programmes and approaches in Peru and Guyana. These discussions were held at a workshop entitled, Developing Policies and Programmes to Promote the Green Economy and Green Jobs in Guyana in June 2013 in Georgetown. The workshop was organized to present a comprehensive overview of the multi-faceted role of green jobs-creation in protecting the environment Work on Green Jobs Policy initiated The Ministry of Labour and Small and Micro Enterprise Development of Trinidad and Tobago with the support of the ILO, commenced the formulation of a policy on Green Jobs. The ILO Green Jobs Programme promotes a practical and coherent strategy that recognizes a strong interdependence between the need for social development and the urgency to act on climate change. 23 The initiative by the Ministry of Labour in Trinidad and Tobago was the result of a tripartite technical and capacity-building seminar entitled Developing Policies and Programmes to Promote Green Jobs and Green Enterprises, held in Port of Spain in May Decent Work Country Programme of Guyana, P Decent Work Country Programme of Guyana, P See land--en/index.htm 7 Unemployment, economic growth and poverty eradication - Skills and training - The green economy

17 Social protection and inclusion Social Protection aims to diminish the exposure of the labour market to risk as well as to promote the wellbeing of workers. The ILO DWT-POS has supported interventions to address issues related to social protection and inclusion in five categories within the last two years: 1. HIV and AIDS 2. Occupational Safety and Health and Environment 3. Persons with Disabilities 4. Child Labour 5. Social Security 8 Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS ILO/M. Crozet

18 9 Social protection and inclusion

19 HIGHLIGHTS HIV and AIDS The ILO has been the main provider of technical support to Caribbean countries (both Members and non- Members of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States) in efforts to protect the rights at work of persons living with HIV through work place policies and programmes. Table 1 below, presents an outline of national responses that have resulted from capacitybuilding, training, sensitization and other forms of intervention at multiple levels and across sectors in the Caribbean. 24 Capacity to implement a sustainable response to HIV developed Through a partnership with the HIV Caribbean Office of the Pan American Health Organization (PHCO) the ILO supported Aruba, Anguilla, Curacao, Montserrat, Saba and Sint Maarten on a European Union Funded project on Strengthening the integration of the British and Dutch Overseas Caribbean Territories (OCTs) in the Regional Response to HIV/AIDS within the framework of the Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP). From , Barbados, Belize, Guyana, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago were all beneficiaries of a three-year workplace education project funded by the United States Department of Labour (USDOL). From 2010, TABLE 1 10 Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS Country Year National Response Anguilla 2012 National Workplace Policy adopted Aruba 2012 Draft National Workplace Policy developed Antigua and Barbuda Decent Work Country Programme Priority Pilot Workplace Programme launched Barbados Sustainability Plan developed HIV Guidelines for the Public Sector Developed Belize 2012 Revision of National Workplace Policy initiated Dominica Decent Work Country Programme Priority Work on National Workplace Policy initiated Guyana 2013 HIV and AIDS Workplace Regulations, 2001 completed and finalized Grenada Decent Work Country Programme Priority Draft National Workplace Policy developed Jamaica 2013 National Workplace Policy launched Montserrat Decent Work Country Programme Priority MoU for Implementation of Montserrat Workplace Wellness Programme (which incorporates HIV and AIDS) signed Saint Kitts and Nevis Decent Work Country Programme Priority National Workplace Policy adopted 2013 Pilot Workplace Programme launched Saint Lucia 2010 Decent Work Country Programme Priority Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Sint Maarten Trinidad and Tobago Decent Work Country Programme Priority National Workplace Policy adopted Pilot Workplace Programme launched National Workplace Policy adopted 24 Section 6 of The Bahamas Employment Act, 2001 addresses the issue of non-discrimination against persons living with HIV. MoU for Implementation of a Safe and Healthy Work Environment signed National Workplace Policy adopted HIV/AIDS 5-Year Sustainability Plan launched

20 support was provided to the HIV and AIDS Advisory and Sustainability Centre (HASC) in Trinidad and Tobago which was put in place as a result of the USDOL project. A three-year transitional plan to national ownership was initiated in 2013 in Guyana. Suriname was the recipient of a two-year workplace education programme ( ), funded by the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). The Suriname Business Coalition on HIV and AIDSS was an active participant in the project and adopted the ILO processes, tools and materials to implement a robust workplace response in member enterprises during the project period. Workers capacity to implement a sustainable response to HIV reinforced The Caribbean Congress of Labour (CCL) in collaboration with the ILO and the Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP) successfully reinforced the capacity of 97 trade unionists to implement workplace programmes on HIV and AIDS in their workplaces during Seventeen Workers Organizations from twelve CARICOM countries now have trained and equipped leaders, industrial relations officers, focal points and peer educators. Occupational Safety and Health and Environment National and institutional capacity related to workplace compliance with Occupational Safety and Health and Environment (OSHE) strengthened One of the main roles of labour inspectors in the Caribbean is to ensure and promote compliance on OSH measures at workplaces in line with national legislation. Two hundred and forty Safety and Health Officers and Inspectors in the Caribbean are better equipped, as a result of the ILO Programme on OSHE in the Caribbean (OSHE Programme), to reinforce OSH standards. Officials also benefited from expert training on the use of Industrial Hygiene equipment to support their work with occupational health hazards through a training programme conducted in collaboration with the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, Jamaica. The OSHE Programme was implemented during the period Sector-specific management capacity in Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) strengthened TABLE 2 Country MINING Guyana and Suriname HOTEL/HOSPITALITY Saint Lucia and Sint Maarten Result by Sector In response to requests from Ministries of Labour to improve safety and health in the mining sector, two training workshops specifically targeting small-scale mines were conducted in November 2012 and April The ILO collaborated extensively on technical assessments and consultations (including field visits) prior to the workshops in order to determine the levels of need. Both workshops provided a forum to acquire knowledge and skills specifically related to OSH in mining as well as to identify current problems and gaps at mining sites. In order to increase compliance with OSH legislation, representatives from the tripartite constituents in Saint Lucia and the employers organization in Sint Maarten are now equipped to conduct peer training on OSH Risk Assessment in the Hotel/Hospitality Industry. The training workshops were conducted in both countries in May In 2012 the ILO DWT-POS collaborated with the Saint Lucia Employers Federation (SLEF) on a three-day training workshop on OSH in the Construction Sector. CONSTRUCTION Dominica Forty-one managers, engineers and safety officers from member-organizations and enterprises of the Dominica Employers Federation (DEF) benefited from a capacitybuilding workshop on OSH Risk Assessment in the Construction Industry. Apart from the increased and improved competences, this interactive initiative resulted in the development of an Action Plan on OSH Risk Assessment in each organization and enterprise. Systems approach to OSH in line with the Promotional Framework for OSH Convention (2006, No. 187) reinforced One hundred and fifty stakeholders gained increased awareness of the systems approach to OSH at a national symposium in Jamaica, in April 2013 which focused on the new OSH Bill. A National OSH Profile was launched on 16 December 2013 in Jamaica. The ILO DWT-POS contributed to the development of the OSH Profile through sensitization and coordination of stakeholders and provision of technical inputs. 11 Social protection and inclusion

21 The National OSH Profile is one of the core tools for a systems approach to OSH management in line with the Promotional Framework for OSH Convention (No. 187) and Recommendation (No. 197). It is considered by the ILO as an essential first step to building a sound National OSH Programme. 25 Legal Framework for OSH strengthened On 1 January 2013 Barbados proclaimed the Safety and Health at Work Act. 26 ILO provided support to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security through advocacy and public sensitization. Persons with Disabilities According to the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), approximately 5% of persons in Caribbean SIDS have a form of disability and are more than half as likely as persons without disabilities to be employed. ECLAC asserts that although governments support employment, self-employment and sheltered employment are promoted in certain countries, and where reasonable adaptations that contribute to physical accessibility of the workplace exist, there is clearly scope for increased employment of persons with disability in both the public and private sector Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS ILO Caribbean Occupational Safety and Health Bills have been drafted in Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Jamaica and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Preventative safety and health culture developed among workers, employers, communities and children Significant investments have been made within the last five years to raise the levels of awareness and to improve the knowledge and competences of constituents on Occupational Safety and Health and Environment. The ILO continues to support the Caribbean in the annual 28 April observance of World Day for Safety and Health at Work through the dissemination of promotional material, technical support at symposia, seminars, conferences and other interventions as well as awareness-raising competitions and activities. In Guyana, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security and the Ministry of Education, safety and health programmes were implemented in primary and secondary schools. 25 ILO: journals/world-of-work-magazine/articles/wcms_099050/lang- -en/index.htm 26 The Safety and Health at Work Act was passed in Parliament in 2005 Increased opportunities for persons with disabilities to access decent work Improved access to decent work for persons with disabilities is one of the priorities of the DWCP for Saint Lucia. 28 A Task Force to review the country s national policies on the employment of persons with disabilities and to develop plans to implement the policies was established in July 2012 as a consequence of ILO DWT- POS support through capacity building interventions. A similar outcome was achieved in Bermuda where, following a 2011 amendment to the Human Rights Act entitled, Unreasonable Hardship, it became necessary to develop and implement strategies to employ persons with disabilities. 29 A request for technical support came through the National Office for Seniors and the Physically Challenged under the Ministry of Health and a two-day capacity-building Workshop was conducted in June Additionally, a Task Force and Action Plan were developed. In Trinidad and Tobago, the ILO has provided technical support and advice to the National Centre for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) since inception in In 2011, support was provided through Workshop for NCPD instructors on entrepreneurship with a specific focus on self-employment. The subjects have since become a part of the Centre s core curriculum and implementation has continued from 2012 to present. ILO DWT-POS is currently collaborating with the NCPD to produce a video in commemoration of their 50 th Anniversary in December GOMES, C., The Case of Small Islands Developing States of the Caribbean: The Challenge of Building Resilience. P18, ECLAC. 28 Established in (See Annex 1) 29 The legislation removes barriers to discrimination against persons with disabilities in employment and establishes processes for employers to hire persons with disabilities.

22 ILO Caribbean ILO ILC Team Child Labour National policies on child labour reinforced A Communiqué outlining the commitment of tripartite constituents to tackling the issue of child labour in Guyana was signed in While the social partners agreed to ensure effective monitoring is in place to embrace the fight against child labour in supply chains the Government specifically committed to the enforcement of national legislation and to facilitating sufficient budgetary allocations. In Jamaica, a comprehensive review of all national legislation in relation to Conventions No. 182 and 138 was undertaken. The Trade Union Confederation developed and adopted a Child Labour Policy while the employers organization and government drafted policies. Child Labour was also included in national policy frameworks like the National Education Policy and the corporate plan and activities of the Poor Relief Department thus ensuring policy coherence ILO: Highlights of ILO s work in the Caribbean. April 2010 to June P.21 In February 2013, the ILO-European Union (EU) Tackling Child Labour through Education (TACKLE) Project in Jamaica launched a Handbook on Child Labour. The publication supports the enhancement of the knowledgebase on Child Labour by providing guidelines for professionals who encounter instances of Child Labour in the course of their work. A draft child labour policy was drafted with the support of the Project while a number of sectors were selected to pilot awareness-raising and training in support of youth education programmes. Additionally, a Red Card for Child Labour campaign was organized during the qualifying matches of the FIFA World Cup of Social Security Awareness on issues related to the ILO Recommendation concerning National Floors of Social Protection, 2012 (R202) increased The ILO delivered technical advisory services in May 2012 on Recommendation 202 on the occasion of a seminar convened by the Caribbean Centre for Money and Finance in Trinidad and Tobago. 31 Global developments in pension schemes; pension reforms in the region; the sustainability of private pensions; social security schemes after retirement and the governance of pension funds were among the themes discussed at the seminar entitled, The Future of the Pension Industry in the Caribbean. 31 Geneva, 101 st International Labour Conference session, 14 June Social protection and inclusion

23 14 ITCILO/P. Tomlinson Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS Formalization of the informal economy

24 15 Formalization of the informal economy

25 HIGHLIGHTS: Knowledge-base on informality strengthened Three studies on the Formalization of the Informal Economy were commissioned by the ILO in 2013 in Jamaica, Saint Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago. In Saint Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago the studies contribute to the development of an applied research framework that provides guidance to strengthen the capacity of governments on the promotion of formalization through a systematic analysis of existing data. Furthermore, the studies provide an inventory of policies, strategies and schemes that have been positively implemented across the region. Skills in rural communities strengthened In 2012, the Government of Guyana implemented the Community Road Improvement Programme (CRIP) a job creation programme aimed at improving access to markets, schools, health centres and social and economic facilities within rural communities through road improvement. The ILO DWT-POS supported the CRIP through: training needs assessments, design and delivery of a needs-based training programme; and post-training assessment and technical advice. A cross-sector comparative study was carried out in Jamaica to identify the patterns of informality and to analyze and systematize good practices in reducing urban informal employment over the past decade. Knowledge on the perceptions of the Informal Economy generated and disseminated 16 Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS In 2013 several surveys were conducted through the Regional Specialist for Employers Activities in Lima, Peru to determine the perception of the informal economy (which included suggestions for policies and practices that could assist enterprises in moving from the informal to formal sector). 32 Studies were completed in both Saint Lucia and Suriname with the assistance of the Saint Lucia Employers Federation (SLEF) and Suriname Trade and Industry Association (STIA). A Regional Workshop entitled, Informal Economy in Latin America and the Caribbean: The Role of the Formal Private Sector and Business Organizations, was convened from April 2014, in Lima to review the survey findings and to develop strategies for formalization. The Caribbean perspective was articulated through the participation of the SLEF and the Jamaica Employers Federation (JEF). As a follow-up to the survey in Saint Lucia it was recognized that a barrier to moving from informality was a lack of knowledge about how to establish a formal business and thus, a workshop on SIYB was conducted in July 2014 through SLEF. 32 ILO: Highlights of ILO s work in the Caribbean. April 2010 to June P.14

26 17 Nathalie Phillips Formalization of the informal economy ITCILO/P. Tomlinson

27 ILO Caribbean International labour standards 18 Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS

28 19 International labour standards

29 20 Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS: Increased awareness and enhanced knowledge of constituents and key stakeholders about the ILO, the supervisory mechanisms and its related obligations (submission and reporting) During the period under review the ILO DWT-POS provided practical support to constituents in an effort to address challenges in the submission of reports related to the ratification of conventions. A number of Caribbean countries requested technical assistance to enhance their capacity to discharge their constitutional obligations and subsequently, training interventions were specially tailored to specific countries and executed. To date, workshops have been undertaken in British Virgin Islands (November 2011), Guyana (May 2012), Sint Maarten (December 2012), Grenada (June 2013) and Barbados (October 2013). Over 100 constituents have received advisory services and developed intra-caribbean cooperation provided by the Departments of Labour in Antigua and Barbuda and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Subsequent to the Workshops there have been significant improvements in the submission of reports in Grenada, Barbados, British Virgin Islands and Sint Maarten. Work was initiated in Guyana and ILO DWT-POS continues to provide appropriate feedback and support as required. Increased ratification of International Labour Standards The results of technical support and advocacy to Caribbean constituents (through Gap Analyses, seminars and conferences) in favour of the ratification of Conventions over the past 2 years are outlined in Table 3 below: TABLE 3 Knowledge and awareness on Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC 2006) increased Participants of tripartite workshops and awareness-raising seminars that were conducted in April 2013 in Saint Kitts and Nevis and Trinidad and Tobago benefited from increased awareness and enhanced knowledge on MLC 2006 and related global and regional developments. High-level court professionals enabled to use International Labour Law to enhance gender equality when delivering labour justice at a national level In September 2013 thirty-two judges and magistrates of Caribbean Courts responsible for labour and industrial relations were advised on the best use of International Labour Standards and gender equality at the, Subregional Gender Equality Workshop for Judges of the Caribbean. In June 2009 the ILC adopted a Resolution on Gender Equality to support the strengthening of labour inspection systems and courts so that they are able to monitor more effectively the application for key equality Conventions and issues of sex discrimination at work. 33 In response to this Resolution, the Bureau for Gender Equality in collaboration with the ILO DWT-POS organized a Workshop for Judges of the Caribbean. The Workshop was held in Barbados and also covered issues such as: The ILS System and Gender Equality The Role of Employers and Workers Organizations in promoting Gender Equality and non-discrimination Equal Pay for Work of Equal Value Convention 189 on Decent Work for Domestic Workers HIV and AIDS and the World of Work: ILO Recommendation 200 Employment Relationship, Contracts of Employment, Termination of Employment and Gender Equality Balancing Work and Family Convention Ratified by Date Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 Saint Kitts and Nevis 21 February 2012 Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 Barbados 20 June 2013 Domestic Workers Convention, 2011 Guyana 09 August 2013 Employment Policy Convention, 1964 (No. 122) Trinidad and Tobago 19 September 2013 Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 Belize 08 July See gender/documents/meetingdocument/wcms_ pdf

30 Capacity of legal professionals and Ministry of Labour officials strengthened through training in International Labour Standards The technical capacity of twenty-five legal professionals from the Caribbean was strengthened through the Third Caribbean Course on International Labour Standards for Judges, Lawyers and Legal Educators, which was organized in collaboration with the International Training Centre of the ILO in July 2012, Port of Spain. The Course provided participants with in-depth insight into the exhaustive use of ILS sources the instruments and machinery of the ILS system; the application of ILS on freedom of association; and the right to collective bargaining and equality in employment and occupation. 21 ILO/M. Crozet International labour standards

31 22 Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS ITCILO/P. Tomlinson ILO Caribbean Social dialogue and tripartism

32 23 Social dialogue and tripartism

33 HIGHLIGHTS: Social Dialogue Tripartism and policy development promoted at high-level Caribbean Community (CARICOM) forum Ministers responsible for labour, gender and social development as well as Presidents of the Caribbean Employers Confederation (CEC) and Caribbean Congress of Labour (CCL) decided to institutionalize a Regional Social Dialogue Mechanism at the 26 th Meeting of the Council of Human and Social Development (COHSOD) CARICOM in Georgetown, Guyana in May Thirteen countries and one Non-Metropolitan Territory participated to discuss policy coherence through the integration of labour and gender in the promotion and advancement of the CARICOM Development Agenda. The ILO s approach to ensuring that countries have accurate and up-to-date data to support labour market expansion through policy development via efficient Labour Market Information Systems was showcased. 34 social dialogue mechanism. This new commitment to cooperate helped to overcome long-standing collective disputes in the public sector in spring Trinidad and Tobago: In March 2014 a cadre of employers enhanced their awareness and capacity in the areas of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms through participation in a conference on Landmark Court Judgments convened by the ECATT. In September 2012, twenty-one industrial court judges benefited from a seminar on dispute resolution and conciliation techniques where current national collective bargaining issues were also discussed with ILO representatives. Approximately 200 participants (including Members of Cabinet) participated in a two-day national Workshop on the Social Dialogue process convened in June The ILO provided technical input and facilitated South- South Cooperation. As a consequence, the Government, together with the social partners, established a Social Dialogue Task Force in January 2014 to address major economic and social issues of national interest. The ILO continues to provide assistance to this high-level tripartite committee. 24 Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS Mechanisms for labour dispute settlement strengthened and revitalized Subregional: The critical role of Labour Officers in promoting and ensuring social peace and harmonious industrial relations was one of the highlights of capacitybuilding interventions in Saint Lucia (March 2012), Antigua and Barbuda (December 2012), Trinidad and Tobago (March and May 2013) and Grenada (August 2014). The number of agreements reached in labour disputes subsequent to the training has significantly increased. Aruba: A new social dialogue mechanism was established under the guidance of the Prime Minister. In response to related requests for support, the ILO conducted an audit of the social dialogue situation in January Support was also provided in a highlevel seminar to shape and fine-tune the social dialogue mechanism to address a number of economic and social issues. Belize: Twenty-seven employers have enhanced their skills through participation in a workshop on Dispute Avoidance and Resolution through Good Management Practices held in June The focus of the Workshop was developing better management practices and enhancing mediation and negotiation skills to resolve disputes arising at the enterprise. Saint Lucia: Unanimous agreement was reached at a National Tripartite Conference in February 2013, facilitated by the ILO, to develop a national tripartite 34 ILO: Highlights of ILO s work in the Caribbean. April 2010 to June P.4 Advancements made in the formalization of social dialogue at the regional level A proposal for the establishment of a Regional Tripartite Forum was one of the major outcomes of the 54 th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Caribbean Employers Confederation (CEC) in Saint Lucia in May The AGM focused on the progress in consolidating CEC s relationship with the Caribbean Congress of Labour (CCL) as both regional organizations share a goal of increased involvement in the workings of CARICOM. At the Eighth Meeting of Caribbean Ministers of Labour (July 2013) it was agreed that the formalization and institutionalization of social dialogue at national and regional levels will enable more effective input to economic and social policies at all levels. 35 This resulted in a call for the institutionalization of a regional Social Dialogue Mechanism. 36 Decent Work Country Programme for the Caribbean in progress Significant progress has been made toward the development of a DWCP by tripartite constituents in Suriname. Among the expected DWCP outcomes to which the constituents agreed during discussions held in October 2013 are: strengthened sensitization and increased awareness for the creation of an enabling environment for the promotion of sustainable enterprises; 35 ILO: Conclusions 8 th Meeting of Caribbean Ministers of Labour, July P3 36 COHSOD-CARICOM Meeting, May 2014

34 ILO Caribbean ILO/Berger ratification and application of ILO core Conventions and the promotion of adherence to the fundamental principles and rights at work; modernization of existing labour legislation, and the introduction of new legislation; development of a labour inspection strategy and adoption of an action programme; operationalization of the LMIS for the production of timely information on key labour market indicators; the establishment of policies to reduce informality based on increased knowledge gained from a survey programme and other data sources; and the timely conduct of wage surveys and production of statistics. Discussions with the Ministry of Labour and the social partners are ongoing, and it is anticipated that the DWCP will be launched shortly. 2. HIV/AIDS regulations have been tabled and gazetted; Implementation of a national monthly minimum wage (equivalent to USD170 as of July 2013); 4. Extension of the minimum wage to domestic workers; 5. OSH regulations related to mining, chemicals, manufacturing and noise currently being finalized; 6. Ratification of Domestic Workers Convention, 2011 (No. 189); 7. Labour Law amendments which allowed for the protection of security guards and domestic workers to be protected by law for the first time; 25 National commitment to Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) reaffirmed A review of the DWCP for Guyana was conducted in 2014 and the full commitment of the Parliament and social partners was established. Although work is ongoing, progress has been noted in a number of areas: 1. Regular meetings of the Tripartite Forum have been held to discuss labour-related matters; recommendations arising from these meetings have been adopted and submitted to Parliament for consideration; 8. Initiatives to continue the work that was initiated under the TACKLE Project such as support to parents to keep children in school as well as practical support to training agencies to cater to children that have dropped out of the formal school system. Areas of future work were identified as: improving youth employment rates, ensuring that robust and timely labour statistics are available and increased enforcement of labour legislation. 37 Gazetted officially published or announced Social dialogue and tripartism

35 26 ITCILO/P. Tomlinson Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS Institutionalization of social dialogue in the public utilities sector initiated Senior managers of the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) of Trinidad and Tobago participated in a development session in January 2014 where, together with the Ministry of Labour and Small and Micro Enterprise Development support was pledged for the institutionalization of social dialogue. Subsequently, the ILO DWT-POS in collaboration with the Germany Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago organized a study tour to two companies in Germany that have successfully institutionalized social dialogue. WASA officials, as well as WASA union members and national union leaders, benefited from the opportunity to observe and learn from models utilized by the German companies; to examine the range of activities considered to be critical to the improvement of management-labour relations; to establish a format and framework for the operation of social dialogue committees and subcommittees; to identify appropriate organizational support systems for the institutionalization of social dialogue at the enterprise level, as well as issues that would be of concern to the representative unions. As a follow up to these initiatives, the Human Resources Division of WASA has established a social dialogue committee consisting of management and labour representatives. Policies and procedures will be developed along with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which will guide and support the institutionalization of the social dialogue process in WASA. This initiative is to be seen in the overall context of Trinidad and Tobago s efforts to promote better industrial relations and social dialogue at all levels. Employers Activities Capacity of Employers to understand the role of International Labour Standards in accessing international markers increased As the Caribbean continues to address the impact of globalization it is important that countries are positioned to make the link between emerging export market requirements and the single market approach from a labour standards perspective. It is envisioned that engagement from employers in actively promoting core labour standards in their business practices will contribute to strengthening the Caribbean Single Market (CSM) through meaningful engagements in international trade negotiations and by understanding and maximizing the benefits of the CARIFORUM-EPA Agreement. Sixteen national workshops on the Role of Labour Standards in Accessing International Markets and supporting the CSM were held in Over 370

36 employers from Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago benefited from timely exchanges. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: A clear set of recommendations for implementation was the result of an organizational review of the Saint Vincent Employers Federation (SVEF) conducted in May The workshops collectively resulted in gaining the consensus of employers regarding the urgency of work to be done at the country level, to develop a list of hazardous work (not to be performed by persons under 18 years of age) as well as an acceptable list of light duties (that can be performed by persons from 13 years to school-leaving age). Additionally, a consolidated list of pertinent issues to be raised by the Caribbean Employers Confederation on behalf of employers organizations in the region was formulated. It is useful to note that although most workshops were organized by the employers organizations, they were in fact, tripartite and included the participation of government officials and labour representatives - an excellent example of social dialogue and tripartite cooperation in most Caribbean countries. Caribbean Employers Organizations strengthened to respond to influence policy development through effectively responding to the needs of the business environment Chief Executive Officers and Presidents of Employers Organizations from 19 Caribbean countries and Non- Metropolitan Territories (NMTs) enhanced their capacity to address issues related to management and leadership; strategic positioning and partnership; corruption costs; productivity and competitiveness; Enabling Environment for Sustainable Enterprises (EESE); and the benefits of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) to the business community. These themes were addressed at the Fourth Caribbean Academy for Management of Employers Organizations (CAMEO IV), held in Antigua and Barbuda in August The CAMEO mirrors the Latin American Institute for the Management of Employers Organizations (ILGO) which has been successfully conducted in Spanish since Employers supported to engage more effectively in the social dialogue process through increased and improved representation The Bahamas: The National Conclave of the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) met in April 2014 and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was developed between the BCCEC and all Family Island Chambers in support of the goal of full representation of business interests in The Bahamas. The ILO supported the employers by advocating for full engagement in the social dialogue process through clear communication channels and active participation of all members. Capacity of entrepreneurs and micro businesses strengthened Thirty-five individual and potential members of the Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce (CICC) benefited from technical support in formalizing their business operations through training on starting a business, skills and attitudes necessary for successful entrepreneurship, steps in developing a business plan, marketing plan and financial planning. The two-day training workshop was organized by the CICC in August Strategies to deliver improved services and increase membership of women entrepreneurs developed Representatives from Employers Organizations and associations of Women Entrepreneurs from twelve Caribbean Countries developed strategies to deliver services and attract and retain women entrepreneurs as members of Employers Organizations in October The Sub-Regional Workshop entitled, How to Reach Out, was held in Jamaica. The ILO DWT-POS provided specific support in the area of Service Development and Delivery. Negotiation and mediation capacity of Employers and Workers Organizations reinforced Trinidad and Tobago: Members of the Employers Consultative Association of Trinidad and Tobago (ECATT) and the National Trade Union Centre of Trinidad and Tobago (NATUC) increased their competences in the areas of negotiation and mediation in March and May 2013 respectively. Antigua and Barbuda: Members of the Antigua and Barbuda Employers Federation (ABEF) increased their negotiation and mediation competences in July Additionally, the ABEF developed a new mission and vision statement and eight strategic goals. Grenada: Members of the Grenada Employers Federation (GEF) benefited from a workshop on negotiation and mediation in August Social dialogue and tripartism

37 The training resulted in the development of a CDWN Mission Statement We advocate for decent work and human rights for domestic workers and Vision By the year 2020, CDWN will be recognized as the leading regional advocate for decent work for domestic workers and other low-wage workers. There was also consensus on areas of priority as well as strategies for implementing their work. Travis Dixon Workers Activities Gap Analysis findings disseminated The findings of a report on the gap between legislation and Convention 189 in six CARICOM countries (Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago) were disseminated in a December 2013 workshop in Barbados. The study provides the CDWN with a platform for advocacy for the ratification of the ILO Convention as well as for their work in improving the working conditions of domestic workers in the region. With the support of the ILO the CDWN also commissioned a study to determine the profile of the women in Guyana who are domestic workers. The information generated by the study will facilitate an evidence-based approach to organizing and designing programmes as well as the development of informational material targeting these women. 28 Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS Capacity of Caribbean Domestic Workers Network (CDWN) Steering Committee members strengthened The ILO supported the CDWN Steering Committee in capacity building related to the responsibilities of nonprofit boards and conducting effective meetings in Guyana from 6 7 July Since 2011, the CDWN has been advocating on behalf of domestic workers regionally. An information service, under the umbrella of Red Thread (a grassroots women s organization in Guyana) was established in Guyana. The service is called the, Clotil and Cora Self-Help Information Service for domestic workers; a domestic workers section in the Antigua Trades and Labour Union (ATLU) was formed; there have also been significant increases in the number of organized domestic workers. The Network, through its Jamaican affiliate, the Jamaica Household Workers Union (JHWU) has been working with the national training agency in Jamaica (Heart Trust-NTA) to secure the establishment of a programme of National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) for domestic workers so that more workers may take advantage of the free movement regime under the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME). Priority areas and principal strategies of the Caribbean Domestic Workers Network (CDWN) established Steering Committee Members of the CDWN benefited from practical training in strategic planning and public speaking in September 2013 in Antigua and Barbuda. Strategies and issues to accelerate the ratification of Convention 189 identified Members of the CDWN identified issues and strategies to tackle the ratification of the Convention concerning Decent Work for Domestic Workers (C189) in Barbados between 29 November and 02 December Leadership capacity and understanding of gender issues strengthened among women and young workers Young workers and women workers were the beneficiaries of leadership training which focused on gender. In addition to areas such as leadership skills, effective communication and building alliances, the participants examined power and assertion, the gender dimensions of leadership, gender bargaining and activism for gender equality as well as of the relevant international labour standards. These training workshops were held in October and November 2013 to provide a platform for greater participation of young persons and women in union leadership at the Barbados. Both workshops led to the development of action plans by the two groups. Training on child labour and trade union policy developed In 2011, child labour training was run with affiliates of the Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions (JCTU). Out of this training, the JCTU developed and adopted a child labour policy. The participants from each of JCTU affiliates drafted mini action programmes to be undertaken

38 by each affiliated union and which was to be funded by through the EU-ILO Tackling Child Labour through Education Programme (TACKLE). The sensitization carried out by the Jamaica Household Workers Union at the community level resulted in one rural community starting a Grab a Child project which would continue to raise awareness, promote parents literacy and form support groups for families whose children are at risk. Media strategy and campaign developed National Congress of Trade Unions of The Bahamas developed a media strategy and campaign to raise awareness of the roles and responsibilities of trade unions with a view to building a positive image of the union movement and raising awareness about unions. Trade Union leadership skills strengthened The National Congress of Trade Unions of The Bahamas brought together shop stewards and officers in two workshops to enhance their leadership skills and the institutional capacity of their unions. The participants were able to assess the challenges confronting trade unions and what was required to address these challenges; they also looked at topics such as examining strategies for recruitment, retention and succession planning as well as how to maintain the trade union as a democratic organization. (ABPSA) with the support of the Office developed a joint trade union policy on occupation safety and health which also included provisions of dealing with HIV and AIDS in the workplace. After the policy was ratified both unions highest decision-making body, a series of workshops were held to train shop stewards on the policy and develop strategies for the effective implementation of the policy at the workplace. Later in 2012, the shop stewards and OSH officers of the Grenada Trades Union Council (GTUC) examined the international labour standards related to occupational safety and health, in particular C.155 and C.161. Based on these Conventions, the GTUC drafted a trade union policy on occupational safety and health and a plan of action for raising OSH awareness amongst its membership. Institutional capacity of workers bolstered through the development of a Strategic Plan The institutional capacity of the Antigua and Barbuda Workers Union (ABWU) was reinforced with the development of a five-year Strategic Plan (covering the period ). The plan supports the goal of modernizing the ABWU and developing effective communication and partnerships in its efforts to serve its members and working people. A review of the Constitution is one of the initial activities to be implemented under the Strategic Plan. Trade union policies and plans of action on occupational safety and health developed and published In 2011, Antigua and Barbuda Workers Union (ABWU) and the Antigua and Barbuda Public Service Association 29 Jeanette Dietl Social dialogue and tripartism

39 30 Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS ITCILO/P. Tomlinson Policy coherence

40 31 Policy coherence

41 HIGHLIGHTS: Policy coherence promoted through Social Dialogue The role of effective social dialogue in harmonizing the agendas of both OSH and productivity was the focus of the Sub-regional Tripartite Meeting on OSH, Productivity and Social Dialogue, October The Meeting also benefited from South-South Cooperation through exchanges from tripartite delegations from Singapore and Mauritius and ended with a strong call to strengthen social dialogue in the Caribbean region. Dialogue on Gender-equality and nondiscrimination at work strengthened through active participation in multi-stakeholder fora The ILO DWT-POS contributed to dialogue on the empowerment of women and sexual harassment in the workplace at a Seminar on Gender-Based Violence organized by the Embassy of Chile and the United Nations (UN) System of Trinidad and Tobago in Port of Spain, October The Seminar was designed to sensitize key stakeholders to issues of gender-based violence through exchanges. The ILO DWT-POS was invited to the Seminar as a member of the UN Gender Theme Group in Trinidad and Tobago. In November 2013 the Institute for Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) commemorated its 20 th Anniversary with a regional symposium, Continuities, Challenges and Transformations in Caribbean Gender Relations at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus. The need for continued dialogue and technical support in two specific areas was established: 1. issues related to the gender gap in employment in the Caribbean Tourism and Hospitality sector; and 2. support in the development of gender-sensitive policies for women in the small-scale farming sector. Productivity and inclusive economic growth supported Public Private Partnerships (PPP) are a mechanism whereby public and private interests can jointly address the challenges of promoting greater productivity and more inclusive economies. In November 2013, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) organized a Forum on PPP for Sustainable Growth in the Caribbean in Barbados in collaboration with the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB), Multilateral Investment Funds, the Public-Private Infrastructure Advisory Facility and the World Bank Group. Technical assistance from the ILO is envisioned in the area of support to the government in the development and implementation of PPP projects to support job creation, employment policy, skills development and working conditions including safety and health at work. 32 Promoting Sustainable Development through Decent Work in the Caribbean HIGHLIGHTS ITCILO/P. Tomlinson