Worker threatens legal action after Jumby Bay dismissals. The case has stirred public concern, and the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) has increased pressure on the resort. The union continues to demand that management reverse six recent dismissals.

The worker, a former Food and Beverage Server, began his job in December 2017. He has since hired industrial relations consultant Anderson E. Carty. In a letter dated November 26, Carty demanded a major compensation package. He also gave the resort until December 3 to settle the claim. If the resort fails to act, the matter will move to the Labour Commissioner and then the Industrial Court.

The dispute grew from events on October 19, 2025. The worker reported for his 3:30 p.m. shift while feeling unwell. After a 4:45 p.m. briefing, staff took a meal break and were told to return at 6 p.m. The worker said he returned five minutes late due to stomach issues. He also made a second restroom visit about 30 minutes later. Because he still felt ill, he told the restaurant manager he needed to end his shift. He said no one told him to see the duty nurse.

The resort suspended him the next day. It accused him of arguing with his manager and walking off the job. However, the termination letter issued on November 25 claimed something different. It said several workers staged a coordinated work stoppage. Seven of ten staff members left on the 7:30 p.m. ferry and cited illness or emergencies.

Management said that no worker showed signs of illness before the break. It also said no employee visited the nurse, despite company policy. The resort concluded staff had discussed leaving during the break.

Carty rejected that claim. He argued the four-week unpaid suspension violated Labour Court rulings. He said the dismissals were meant to suppress industrial action. He requested compensation for notice pay, unused vacation, lost income, and damages.

Meanwhile, the ABWU condemned the resort’s actions. General Secretary David Massiah said the union may stage a picket. He urged the resort to reinstate the staff.

The resort cited Labour Code rules on serious misconduct. It said it had lost trust in the employees.
Observer media sought a comment, yet the resort declined.

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