AHTA enrols over 1,800 workers for health insurance by the first anniversary of the scheme

This week marks the first anniversary (Oct 1) of the group healthcare programme established by the Antigua Hotels & Tourist Association (AHTA) and the Antigua & Barbuda Workers Union for hotel industry workers by reaching a major milestone—the enrolment of over 1,800 participants into the scheme.

The AHTA & ABWU signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with State Insurance in May 2013 providing health insurance to all permanent employees in hotels governed by their Collective Agreement, effective October 2013.

State Insurance Corporation is offering an affordable and convenient Health Insurance coverage with a vast network of doctors, pharmacies and labs.  Their co-payment option makes accessing healthcare seamless, convenient and cost effective.

“It is now one year, yet it seems like only yesterday since the inception of the plan. We at State Insurance pledge our continued commitment to our Insured, and we assure you that we are always seeking ways to improve our services so that you, the customer, will always be satisfied.” Stated Mrs Butler, General Manager of State Insurance

“We are delighted so many industry professionals chose to take part in the health care scheme,” AHTA Chairman Andrew Hedley said.

He added, “We are not only interested in the health of the tourism industry, but the health and welfare of the very people who drive it. I am urging every eligible worker to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.”

ABWU Senior Industrial Relations Officer Chester Hughes, who was integral to developing the MOU on behalf of the Union, stressed that all involved benefit from offering health insurance.

“Being able to work diligently and effectively with the AHTA and State Insurance to achieve the mutually beneficial goal of providing employee healthcare is a testament to what joint cooperation and dedication can accomplish. Working with state Insurance Corporation demonstrates our confidence as a Union with working with local institutions for the betterment of our membership. Our negotiations are a model for other industries island wide,” the trade unionist said.

However, AHTA General Manger, Neil Forrester said this is only the tip of the iceberg concerning what the Association members provide for their workers.

“Our objective is to look out for the welfare of the industry’s employees and to provide tangible benefits that enhance their quality of life and not just monetary increases. The Association not only offers healthcare insurance, but also gives workers access to a retirement scheme,” the AHTA General Manager said.

In 2010, the AHTA and the ABWU introduced an industry wide retirement scheme with ABI Bank to which just under 1,500 industry employees currently contribute. The retirement plan has grown to EC$6.7 million in 4 and a half years which will be available to workers upon retirement.

For further information on the AHTA sponsored healthcare or retirement scheme visit http://members.antiguahotels.org/ or call the AHTA office at 462-0374.