NASSAU, BAHAMAS- The government is moving closer to implementing labour reforms that will modernize workplace protections, strengthen enforcement mechanisms and reshape employment standards across The Bahamas, according to Minister of Labour, Public Service and National Insurance, Pia Glover-Rolle.
Making her contribution to the 2026/2027 Budget Debate, Glover-Rolle revealed that the drafting of the new Employment Act and Industrial Relations Act is nearing completion, while work continues on the new Public Service Bill and revised General Orders, both expected before the end of the year.
“Once completed, these drafts will once again be circulated among labour stakeholders to ensure that unions, employers, and government representatives have the opportunity to review and provide feedback,” she said.
The minister said the reforms have been driven by extensive consultation with stakeholders.
“This reform process has been built on consultation. It has been built on dialogue. It has been built on consensus,” she said.
“And because of that approach, the International Labour Organization has taken notice. The Bahamas is increasingly being recognized internationally as an example of how social dialogue can successfully produce meaningful labour reform.”
Glover-Rolle said the legislation will introduce a series of modern workplace protections.
“These reforms will bring our labour laws firmly into the modern era,” she said.
“They will introduce stronger occupational safety and health protections. They will establish modern maternity and paternity protections. They will address workplace violence, abuse, and harassment. They will support remote work arrangements. They will introduce important new provisions relating to mental health and worker wellbeing.”
“Most importantly, they will ensure that our labour laws reflect the realities of today’s workforce rather than those of decades past.”
The minister said the reforms are intended to meet the evolving needs of workers and employers.
“We are not reforming for the sake of reform. We are reforming because workers deserve laws that reflect the realities they face every day.”
She also pointed to employers that have already begun adopting workplace policies expected under the new framework.
“Several employers have already introduced paternity leave benefits, while others – such as the Central Bank – have began the provisions to enhance support for nursing mothers.”
“These efforts demonstrate leadership and a recognition that investing in workers ultimately strengthens organizations as well.”
Beyond legislative reform, Glover-Rolle said the Department of Labour continues to expand its enforcement capabilities.
“Strong laws require strong enforcement.”
“Every week we receive complaints, reports, and concerns from workers who trust us to act. And when we receive those complaints, we act.”
“Our inspections have increased. Our interventions have increased. Our enforcement has strengthened.”
The minister said the department has taken action where labour violations resulted in qualified Bahamians being displaced.
“In instances where labour laws have been violated and qualified Bahamians have been displaced, action has been taken. Work permits have been revoked. Employers have been held accountable. And qualified Bahamians have been given opportunities that rightly belong to them.”
She emphasized that the government’s labour policies remain focused on protecting opportunities for Bahamians.
“Let me be very clear. Our position is not anti-foreigner. Our position is pro-Bahamian.”
“We welcome lawful investment. We welcome lawful participation in our economy. But no qualified Bahamian should be overlooked while opportunities intended for them are given elsewhere.”
Glover-Rolle also announced plans to strengthen occupational safety oversight through new technology.
“Through our partnership with the Organization of American States, we are preparing to introduce innovative technologies, including drone-assisted inspection capabilities, to help monitor remote locations throughout our archipelago.”
“This will improve our ability to reach islands and cays that are often difficult to access quickly.”
The minister reiterated the importance of the Department of Labour’s Jobseekers Portal and vacancy monitoring systems in ensuring Bahamians are considered for available jobs.
“The Notice of Vacancy Enforcement Unit continues to uphold one simple principle: Bahamians first.”
“I again encourage every Bahamian seeking employment to register on the Department of Labour’s Jobseekers Portal. Registration matters.”
“Before approval is granted for work permit applications, we examine the availability of qualified Bahamians. The Jobseekers Portal helps us identify those individuals.”
“If you are qualified and available, make sure you are registered. The system only works if we know you are there.”
She added that the department continues to monitor understudy programmes to ensure Bahamians are prepared to assume senior positions over time.
“This is not merely about filling jobs. It is about building careers. It is about succession planning. And it is about ensuring that Bahamians continue moving into leadership positions throughout our economy.”
Highlighting what she described as one of the department’s greatest achievements, Glover-Rolle said 65 industrial agreements have been successfully negotiated and signed under the leadership of Bernard Evans and his team.
“These agreements represent more than signatures on paper. They represent better wages. Better benefits. Better protections. And better opportunities for Bahamian workers.”
Through those agreements, she said, approximately $60 million in additional compensation and benefits has been delivered to public servants and workers throughout the country.
