A legal dispute has delayed the installation of a newly elected executive of the Civil Service Association (CSA), prompting concern about the future direction of one of Saint Lucia’s longest-standing trade unions.
President-elect Nickson Barry addressed members in a video statement on Thursday, May 21, following developments before the High Court that have placed the transition process on hold.
Barry explained that proceedings scheduled to advance the matter were postponed after a request from the opposing side.
“At the High Court hearing on Thursday, May 21st, 2026, the one team’s lawyer requested additional time to prepare, and the court recommended the postponement of the conference of delegates until the matter is heard on June 15th, 2026,” Barry said.
The postponement means that the newly elected executive will not assume office on the date prescribed under the union’s constitution.
“As a result, instead of having the executive that you voted for installed on May 27th, as prescribed by the constitution, the union’s business is effectively at a standstill,” he stated.
Barry described the situation as unprecedented in the history of the organization, which recently marked 75 years of service to public sector workers.
“My comrades, these developments represent the first of its kind in our 75 years as an organization and some of the darkest days in our union history, and they seek to erode the level of trust we place in our procedures and processes,” he said.
Despite the ongoing legal challenge, Barry sought to reassure members that he remains committed to advancing the organization once the matter is resolved.
“As your president in it, I pledge to strengthen and modernize our union systems to better serve our members’ interests,” he said.
He also called on members to remain united during the period of uncertainty.
“My friends, as we navigate these challenging times, I urge you to remain strong and stand firm in solidarity,” Barry stated. “I believe justice will prevail and our union will move forward to achieve great things.”
According to Barry, members should remain focused on the broader objectives of the association despite the current setback.
“Our fight as members remains relevant and we must not allow this obstacle to distract us from our mission,” he said.
Expressing gratitude for the support he received during the election process, Barry reaffirmed his readiness to assume office and work alongside the elected team.
“I thank you for the confidence that you’ve placed in me,” he said. “I remain ready to work with the team of elected officers to deliver a stronger, united and modern CSA that benefits us all.”
The matter is expected to return before the High Court on June 15, when further arguments relating to the dispute will be heard.