Jamaica Household Workers' Union strengthening expertise in industrial relations

KINGSTON, JAMAICA (ILO News) - Thirty executive officers and members of the Jamaica Household Workers Union (JHWU) are participating in a specialized training programme designed to enhance their technical knowledge and understanding of industrial relations.

Designed and delivered by the Hugh Shearer Labour Studies Institute (HSLSI) at the University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, the programme is made possible through the technical and financial support of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Caribbean Office. The collaboration underscores the importance of advancing workers’ rights in Jamaica.

“Through investments in education and capacity-building initiatives, the ILO is helping to empower unions such as the JHWU so they can participate meaningfully in processes for sustainable improvements in labour standards that benefit their members and their communities,” explained Resel Melville ILO Caribbean Programme Officer for the Regional Initiative against Child Labour.

The training marks a major step towards fulfilling the JHWU’s mission of empowering its members with enhanced technical knowledge of industrial relations. With domestic workers often vulnerable to exploitation, the practical learning opportunity seeks to equip the union’s leadership with tools to advocate more effectively on behalf of its members. By strengthening their negotiating skills and deepening their understanding of labour rights, the union aims to foster fairer workplace practices and better protections for household workers across the country.

The training will also give specific focus to topics on fundamental principles and rights at work, particularly freedom of association and the elimination of child labour. The JHWU is seen as a vital partner in the national efforts to eradicate child labour and its worst forms, and are valued as frontline actors in ensuring that domestic work is recognised and respected as Decent work.

Held on Saturday 30 November, the initial workshop covered a range of topics to equip participants with vital skills and knowledge. Sessions included an introduction to Jamaica’s labour laws led by Lauren Marsh, Head of HSLSI, and a deep dive into the disciplinary and grievance processes by Gillian Corrodus, Divisional Director at the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.

In sessions resuming in January 2025, the ILO will also be directly involved in the training with Resel Melville, Programme Officer RILAC conducting sessions on child labour and the principles of freedom of association, as well as addressing decent work and the care economy.

Participants will also explore contemporary trends in industrial relations, and the essentials of geriatric care—highlighting the union’s commitment to broadening and deepening the scope of knowledge for its members, as part of its longterm mandate of ensuring fair and just working conditions and wages for domestic workers, and protecting the rights of women who provide domestic service.