CTUSAB Urges Reform for Protective Services & Nurses Retirement Age in Barbados - Press Conference Highlights Importance

The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) is calling for an urgent reform to the retirement age for members of the Protective Services and nurses, citing the need for adjustments to better support these essential workers.

Addressing the media at a press conference this morning at the Barbados Union of Teachers Headquarters, Welches, St. Michael, CTUSAB President Ryan Phillips described the issue as one of “profound national importance.”

He highlighted the contributions of fire officers, prison officers, police officers and nurses, noting that these workers “dedicate their lives to safeguarding our nation and caring for our people.”

Phillips pointed to the physical and mental demands of roles within the Protective Services, particularly as workers age.

“Every day, they put their health and life on the line to keep us safe, but as they grow older, the ability to meet these rigorous physical requirements naturally declines,” he said, adding that this could impact both the safety of the workers and the effectiveness of the services they provide.

For nurses, Phillips highlighted a critical shortage in the sector, with senior nurses retiring faster than new ones can be trained.

“These seasoned nurses are more than caregivers—they are mentors, guiding the next generation and managing complex medical cases,” he explained, noting the potential impact on patient care and mentorship.

Phillips framed the proposals as part of a broader effort to balance the needs of workers with the country’s long-term interests.

CTUSAB has proposed two key changes to address these challenges: Lower retirement age for protective services and Flexible retirement age for nurses.

“This is not just a policy review but a call to justice, fairness and sustainability for those who give so much to Barbados,” Phillips said.