ABSSB staff returned to work on Tuesday afternoon after a key meeting. The Antigua and Barbuda Free Trade Union reached an agreement with management. As a result, operations at the Long Street branch resumed.

Earlier, tensions had disrupted normal service. However, both sides met to resolve the issues. The meeting lasted about five hours and included union leaders, management, and staff representatives.

ABFTU President Samuel James confirmed the outcome. He said workers went back to their posts around 3 pm. He also described the talks as productive and respectful.

Moreover, he said the discussions helped repair the relationship. Both sides, therefore, agreed on a clear path forward. He added that they hope to avoid similar disputes in the future.

Importantly, the union outlined two major outcomes. First, it now has the building assessment reports. These reports address mold and air quality concerns at the Long Street office.

For months, the union had asked for these documents. However, management had not shared them until now. As a result, workers had grown frustrated.

Second, management agreed to complete all outstanding employee appraisals. It also gave timelines for salary increases tied to those reviews. This commitment helped ease another major concern.

Previously, workers had raised issues with the appraisal system. Some employees had waited years for evaluations. In some cases, they received poor ratings long after the review period.

Therefore, the union pushed for timely feedback. James argued that workers need fair and prompt evaluations. This allows them to improve and earn proper benefits.

The agreement followed a tense protest on Monday. About 40 workers walked off the job. Meanwhile, a small team stayed to maintain essential services.

James said the protest focused on staff safety. He described the situation as unacceptable. In particular, he raised concerns about possible health risks from mold.

He noted that assessments began in early 2025. Yet, the union did not receive results until now. This delay added to worker frustration.

Meanwhile, ABSSB Director David Matthias had avoided public comment during talks. He chose not to affect the discussions.

In the end, the union expressed optimism. James said the goal was always a safe workplace. He also stressed the need for cooperation moving forward.

Finally, he said the union will hold management accountable. At the same time, workers must meet their responsibilities.