BPL Extends Workers’ Suspensions as Overtime Investigation Continues

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS –

Wellington Porter – Shop Steward, Bahamas Electrical Workers Union

“I never thought that this would happen to me in my wildest dreams, but it happened.”

Wellington Porter and Melvin Babb will remain off the job for at least another 20 days as the investigation into overtime at Bahamas Power and Light continues.

The two men were initially suspended for five days.

Following a meeting with BPL’s CEO Tuesday, Bahamas Electrical Workers Union President Kyle Wilson says the union was informed that the suspensions would be extended while the investigation continues.

Wilson says the additional suspension is allowed under the union’s industrial agreement. However, he is warning BPL not to abuse that provision.

Kyle Wilson – President, Bahamas Electrical Workers Union

“You’re saying persons are abusing overtime, but then you’re abusing the industrial agreement, and you’re taking advantage of situations, just like I say, to basically create a smokescreen against what the people are really frustrated about.”

Wilson continues to question why workers are being placed at the centre of the overtime controversy.

He argues that employees do not authorize their own overtime, saying those hours must first be approved and verified by management.

Wilson says accountability should therefore not stop with the workers, but should also extend to those responsible for supervising and approving the work.

Porter, who spoke following Tuesday’s meeting, also maintains that he has no authority to approve his own overtime.

Wellington Porter – Shop Steward, Bahamas Electrical Workers Union

“They’re trying to attack innocent people who work hard and do their job to the best of their ability. But, like I said, I cannot put in for overtime. Overtime is approved by management and signed off by management. But I just don’t understand why.”

Wilson was also asked why only Porter and Babb were suspended, and not him.

Kyle Wilson – President, Bahamas Electrical Workers Union

“There’s an old saying that sometimes hog know where to rub their skin. Okay? And so they’re trying to grab anyone or whoever they can handle or anyone they could deal with.”

Kyle Wilson – President, Bahamas Electrical Workers Union

“I try not to hurt the Bahamian people, the mom and pops. They’re suffering enough now. Persons are losing businesses, meat spoiling, ice cream melting, you know? And so to inflict more punishment, I mean, God wouldn’t be happy with that.”