The Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture participated in a stakeholder consultation on Wednesday, July 1,2026, to contribute the private sector's perspective to the ongoing review of Saint Lucia's Labour Act. The consultation, facilitated by A-ZInformation (JA) Limited on behalf of the Department of Labour, formed part of a broader legislative review aimed at ensuring the country's labour framework remains responsive to the evolving needs of employers and employees.

Representatives from a wide cross-section of the business community shared practical experiences with the current legislation, identifying provisions that function effectively while highlighting areas requiring greater clarity and modernization.

Among the principal issues raised were the administration of sick leave, employee attendance, and job abandonment. Members noted that employers continue to experience uncertainty surrounding medical certification requirements, repeated absenteeism, and the interpretation of job abandonment provisions. Greater legislative clarity, they argued, would improve consistency and reduce operational challenges for businesses.

Participants also discussed the application of natural justice in disciplinary matters, particularly in cases involving serious misconduct. While reaffirming the importance of due process, members recommended clearer procedures that balance employee rights with the need for employers to resolve disciplinary matters in a timely and practical manner.

The consultation also explored how the Labour Act can better reflect the realities of today's workplace. Chamber members encouraged the inclusion of provisions addressing remote and flexible work arrangements, electronic communication, social media, and the increasing use of artificial intelligence in business operations. Employers noted that while many organizations have adopted flexible working policies, the current legislation provides limited guidance for these evolving workplace practices.

Additional recommendations focused on clarifying vacation leave entitlements for temporary employees, reviewing redundancy payment calculations, considering sector-specific minimum wage provisions where appropriate, and expanding family leave provisions to include paternity, adoption, and foster care leave. Participants also encouraged a legislative framework that better accommodates emerging forms of employment, including knowledge workers and the gig economy.

The Chamber welcomed the opportunity to contribute to there view process and reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with the Government, the Department of Labour, employers, employees, and A-ZInformation (JA) Limited to develop a modern labour framework that supports productivity, competitiveness, and sustainable economic growth.

The Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce believes that amodernized Labour Act will enhance labour market efficiency, improve the ease of doing business, and position Saint Lucia to meet the changing demands of adynamic economy.

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