Bitter cut for sugar workers

Article by Sheria Brathwaite

SOME OF THE SUGAR WORKERS who received their walking papers yesterday were left with a bad taste in their mouths over how they were sent home.

As soon as factory workers returned from their 11 a.m. to noon lunch break, some were told to report to the Barbados Agricultural Management Company (BAMC) headquarters in Warrens, St Michael, at 1 p.m. to receive their pink slips.

When a DAILY NATION team arrived, workers were huddled in groups and some vented their frustrations.

“Imagine getting that news right after eating,” said machine assistant Stefan Worrell. “That cut people belly and send them straight to the toilet.”

Last Wednesday, BAMC general manager Leslie Parris said about 42 to 46 people across all departments would be sent home.

Those who received their papers included masons, welders, mechanics, electricians, machine assistants and operators, and general workers. It is understood that four women – an assistant chemist, pack room assistant and two general workers – were severed, while one woman had opted to take a separation package last year. (SB)

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