STATEMENT: CPSU on the formation of the first trade union congress in Dominica

Today September 26, 2025, marked the historic inaugural formation and launch of a Trade Union Congress in the Commonwealth of Dominica, under the Theme “Consolidating Trade Union Power through Unity and Solidarity”. This bold step solidified a collective decision to unify worker representative bodies under a single umbrella body, to amplify advocacy and representation for fair wages and better working conditions for workers. The four leading Trade Unions in Dominica, namely the Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU), Dominica Association of Teachers (DAT), Dominica Amalgamated Workers Union (DAWU) and Waterfront and Allied Workers Union (WAWU), pursued this dream and made it a reality with the unwavering support of the International Labour Organization (ILO).

The Keynote address was delivered by the Director of the ILO, Mr. Joni T. Musabayana (DBL), who said,  “Today you are launching the Dominica Trade Union Congress. This is no small achievement. It is the beginning of a new chapter for the workers of Dominica.

This step strengthens workers’ representation in the country. It also strengthens your voice in the Caribbean, and in the wider international labour movement.”…

He said: “Unity is not only about standing together. It is also about being effective. No single union, however strong, can on its own shape the national agenda. A united congress gives you a stronger seat at the table of social dialogue. It allows you to speak with one voice in defence of workers’ rights. It makes it possible to influence policy, to negotiate better conditions, and to stand firm against injustice.”

With these sentiments in the presence of trade unionists, Delegates, Observers, Government and Private sector officials and the media, the Dominica Trade Union Congress (DTUC) was formed. A constitution was adopted, described by an ILO Activities Specialist Sis Vera Guseva, as the most modern and progressive Constitution of a TUC in the Caribbean region.

First Executive Council- Dominica Trade Union Congress

– President: Steve Michael Joseph (DPSU)
– 1st Vice President: Elias Leah Shillingford (DAWU)
– 2nd Vice President: Donald Rolle (WAWU)
– General Secretary: Thomas Letang (DPSU)
– Treasurer: Kathleen Cornelius (DAT)
– Assistant Secretary: Mervin Alexander (DAT)
– Assistant Treasurer: Frederica Riley (WAWU)

Affiliate Representatives:
– Delia Cuffy Weeks (DPSU)
– Emmeline Stedman (DAWU)
– Julien Benjamin (DAT)
– Garvin Richards (WAWU)