Garbage collection services were disrupted across parts of Antigua on Wednesday after sanitation workers staged a walkout over complaints of poor treatment and inadequate benefits. According to Antigua News Room, approximately 60 employees from the landfill and garbage collection units of the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) are involved in the industrial action.
The workers contend that they are not receiving the same incentives and allowances as employees in other government departments, including the Public Works division. The disparity in compensation has fuelled growing frustration among the sanitation staff.
Beyond the pay concerns, workers are also calling for the removal of NSWMA General Manager Indira James-Henry, alleging that management has consistently failed to adequately address their grievances.
The walkout has interrupted regular waste collection schedules, with residents in affected areas experiencing disruptions to service. As reported by Antigua News Room, James-Henry arrived on site Wednesday and entered into talks with the workers in an effort to resolve the dispute. Discussions are said to be ongoing.
