IAM Union members and supporters gathered outside Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s State of the Territory address in the U.S. Virgin Islands to demand new contracts and fair wage increases for hospital and clinic security officers. The demonstration called attention to about 40 security officers represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) who have worked without a collective bargaining agreement or general wage increases since 2021.
Union leaders say that the delay is due to failures by the Virgin Islands government, specifically the Office of Collective Bargaining (OCB) and the Public Employee Relations Board (PERB), to meet their legal obligations. These workers, according to IAM, have continued their duties protecting patients, health care staff, and visitors under difficult conditions as living costs rise.
“Our union will always stand shoulder to shoulder with workers who are demanding the respect they have earned,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin. “These essential security officers have shown patience and professionalism for years. It’s past time for the Virgin Islands government to negotiate in good faith and deliver the contracts these workers deserve.”
The protest received support from other unions facing similar issues in the territory, highlighting wider concerns about labor rights.
“The message from our members and the community is simple: enough is enough,” said IAM Southern Territory Special Representative John Vigueras. “The governor and the legislature must fix the OCB and PERB, honor the law, respect collective bargaining rights, and deliver fair contracts and raises to the essential workers who keep our islands safe and running. This public action was about accountability and making sure these workers are no longer ignored.”
The event reflects a broader push for accountability from local officials regarding collective bargaining agreements across sectors in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
