BELCO & Union On Efficiencies & Redundancies
BELCO confirmed it has “commenced a restructuring initiative to drive increased efficiencies across the organisation,” and the Electricity Supply Trade Union said “we firmly believe that there are alternative solutions that can be explored before resorting to redundancies.”
BELCO Statement
A spokesperson said, “Bermuda Electric Light Company [BELCO] today announced it has commenced a restructuring initiative to drive increased efficiencies across the organisation. While specific details are limited due to the sensitive nature of the review, the company has identified certain areas for restructuring that support the current and future needs of the business. BELCO is engaged with the Electrical Supply Trade Union [ESTU] regarding the proposed changes, in accordance with the Employment Act 2000 consultation requirements.”
“We are committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders throughout this process,” Wayne Caines, BELCO President stated. “BELCO’s legacy is built on a valued workforce and a customer-centric approach, and those guiding principles will not waver.”
ESTU Statement
A spokesperson said, “The Electricity Supply Trade Union [ESTU] has and will always take into consideration the Company’s mandate to supply you with secure, reliable, and sustainable electric power. As an essential service and therefore fundamental part of the fabric of Bermuda, we are driven by our commitment to serve our local community and to operate in the long-term public interest of Bermuda. We do this 24-hours a day, everyday, through storms, hurricanes, and power loss restorations.
“We have been in discussions with Company management regarding austerity measures the Company has been considering, including redundancies. We want to express our deep concern and disagreement with the steps taken by the Company recently to disengage from that dialogue and the decision to proceed with redundancies. We firmly believe that there are alternative solutions that can be explored before resorting to redundancies and we have outlined this to the Company.
‘Importantly, we do not believe that there is a shared sacrifice across the Company. BELCO continues to make a profit and continues to award management bonuses. We are convinced that the individuals the Company now is proceeding to make redundant can be utilized in other roles within the Company. We have been in talks with Company management to propose alternative measures that could help mitigate the need for redundancies and ensure that these employees are given the opportunity to contribute to the Company’s success.
“We are committed to finding a solution that is fair and equitable for all employees, and we will continue to engage in dialogue with Company management to address our concerns. Our priority is to ensure that the well-being of our employees is upheld and that every effort is made to avoid unnecessary job losses.
“We urge Company management to return to the table and to work collaboratively with us to find a more sustainable and inclusive approach that considers the skills and potential of all individuals within the Company.
“We remain dedicated to finding a resolution that reflects our values and commitment to our members and Bermuda as a whole.”
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