Prime Minister Gaston Browne has issued a firm call for outstanding back pay owed to workers to be settled, telling public sector officials that delays must end and payments must be processed without further excuse.

Speaking at the joint Antigua Trades and Labour Union (AT&LU) and Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party Labour Day rally, Browne said workers affected by unresolved payments, including those linked to the COVID-19 vaccine mandate period, must receive what they are owed.

“When we said to you that they must process their back pay, we expect you to do so and to make sure that every single worker is paid,” Browne said.

He directed senior public servants to take responsibility for completing the necessary administrative work, insisting that the resources are already available.

“Do the research… provide the documentation, the money is in the treasury. Every single worker must be paid,” he said.

The prime minister’s remarks signalled a more forceful stance on the issue, as complaints persist about delays in settling outstanding payments across parts of the public sector.

Browne also stressed that workers must be treated with respect, warning that failure to address legitimate concerns undermines confidence in the system.

“Treat the workers with respect,” he said.

His comments formed part of a broader Labour Day message focused on improving wages, working conditions and protections for workers, as the government begins a new term following the April 30 general election.

The prime minister indicated that ensuring workers receive their full entitlements will remain a priority, as the administration moves to deliver on its commitments to the labour force.