Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2023, published 112nd ILC session (2024)

Equal Remuneration Convention, 1951 (No. 100) - Antigua and Barbuda (Ratification: 2003)

The Committee notes with concern that the Government’s report has not been received. It is therefore bound to repeat its previous comments.

Repetition

Article 1(a) and (b) of the Convention. Work of equal value. The Committee previously noted that section E8(1) of the Labour Code of 1975 did not give full legislative expression to the principle of the Convention. Noting that the National Labour Board had reviewed the Labour Code and that a report had been submitted to the relevant authority for action, it requested the Government to report on the progress made in this regard. In its report, the Government indicates that it is envisaged that the revised text of the Labour Code will set out the principle of equal remuneration for men and women for work of equal value, which should not only provide for equal remuneration for men and women working in the same occupations, but also for equal remuneration for work carried out by men and women that is different in nature but of equal value. Upon revision by the National Labour Board, the upgraded text of the Labour Code will be subject to amendment after the process of public consultation is completed. The Government adds that the National Labour Board will ensure that the Labour Code does not contravene this Convention. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the progress made towards the amendment of the Labour Code to give full legislative expression to the principle of the Convention and, in the meantime, on any measures taken or agreements and policies adopted providing for equal remuneration for men and women for work of equal value.

Remuneration. In its previous comments, the Committee noted the use and definitions of the terms “wages”, “gross wages”, “remuneration” and “conditions of work” in sections A5, C3, C4(1) and E8(1) of the Labour Code. It noted that, while the definition of “gross wages” appeared to be in accordance with the definition of remuneration set out in Article 1(a) of the Convention, it remained unclear whether section C4(1) prohibiting sex discrimination with respect to wages covered the gross wage. It noted the Government’s indication that the terms “wages”, “gross wages” and “remuneration” were used interchangeably in practice, but emphasized that these various terms were often understood to have distinct meanings, thus potentially giving rise to confusion. Noting the ongoing review of the Labour Code, the Committee requested the Government to ensure that the revised text would harmonize the provisions of the Labour Code relevant to wages and remuneration, and include a clear definition of “remuneration” in accordance with Article 1(a) of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the National Labour Board will consider a definition for the term “remuneration” (as opposed to the interchangeable use of the terms “wages” and “gross wages”), which will cover not only the ordinary, basic or minimum wage or salary, but also any additional emoluments payable directly or indirectly, whether in cash or kind, by the employer, in accordance with Article 1(a) of the Convention. This will ensure that there is no potential for confusion. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on the progress made in the amendment of the Labour Code in order to include a clear definition of remuneration in accordance with Article 1(a) of the Convention.

The Committee is raising other matters in a request addressed directly to the Government.

The Committee expects that the Government will make every effort to take the necessary action in the near future.