Premier Cora Richardson Hodge, who serves as Anguilla’s labour minister, has praised the island’s workforce as the driving force behind its development.
Marking International Workers’ Day with a speech on 1 May, she said her heart fills with pride when she considers the magnitude of their contribution.
“On behalf of myself, my family, and the Government of Anguilla, I salute the workforce of Anguilla, past and present, and I salute the hard work and dedication which continues to propel us forward,” she said.
The premier said that while the natural beauty and developer investments are important, it is the people who set Anguilla apart as a tourist destination.
“Our island’s success… has always been our warm, sincere and caring people, the employees that deliver that impeccable service imbued with our culture of nurture,” she said.
Workplace
Richardson Hodge stressed that building a sustainable economic future requires a renewed focus on workplace culture – ensuring environments where workers can flourish and innovation can thrive.
This year’s theme for International Workers’ Day is ‘Promoting a positive workplace for a sustainable economic future’, which the premier said is “more than a slogan”.
“It is a call to action, a reminder that the future we envision, one of shared prosperity and enduring progress, begins with the dignity and the well-being of every worker,” she said.
She described positive workplaces as those grounded in fairness, respect and safety, where workers feel empowered and heard rather than exploited or ignored.
Achieving this, she said, will take collaboration across sectors – from government and employers to employees and wider stakeholders.
Promise of progress
The premier recognised the Labour Department and Labour Tribunal for their ongoing efforts to protect that balance.
She went on to outline the government’s continued commitments such as expanding access to training and skills development, and promoting mental health and well-being.
The government will also ensure fair and safe working conditions, and support businesses that prioritise people alongside profit, Richardson Hodge assured.
“As we plan for the future, let us reaffirm our shared commitment to improved workplaces for all,” she said. “I look forward to working with you as we journey to a brighter future for Anguilla.”
“May God bless you and may God bless Anguilla, and a blessed Labour Day to each and every one of you.”
Listen to the premier’s address below:
