Barbados played a key role at an international meeting in Geneva examining occupational safety and health in the context of extreme weather events.
The Meeting of Experts, convened by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) from April 20 to 24, brought together governments, employers and workers to address how climate-related hazards impact the world of work.
Minister of Labour, Social Security and the Third Sector, Colin Jordan, said Barbados ensured that the Caribbean’s perspective was included, given the region’s lived experience.
“There could not be a meeting of experts on occupational safety and health in adverse weather events without some level of participation from the Caribbean,” he stated.
Barbados was represented by former Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency Executive Director, Jeremy Collymore, and Occupational Safety and Health Officer, Trevor Blackman.
Mr. Collymore was selected as the Government Spokesperson for the meeting, representing participating governments.
“I think Mr. Collymore’s election to be the government spokesperson really spoke to the fact that Barbados is known for its leadership,” Minister Jordan said.
He added that Barbados’ presence helped shape the outcome of the discussions. “Whatever conclusions arrived at will have a flavour of our own experience, because we are represented there,” he noted.
The meeting is expected to produce guidance for member states on protecting workers from hazards such as hurricanes and other extreme events, while maintaining economic stability. “Protection and production, two sides of the same coin. They cannot be separated,” the Minister stressed.
An outcome document will be prepared by the ILO to guide future policy and determine whether new international standards are required. Barbados is expected to review the recommendations closely and continue advocating for the interests of small island developing states.
