Trade unions must modernise and aggressively advocate for workers’ rights in the face of rapid artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, Trade Union Federation (TUF) President Julian Monrose declared during the May Day Rally at the Vigie Sports Complex on Thursday.
Delivering his address under this year’s theme, Revolutionising Health & Safety: The Role of AI and Digitisation at Work, Monrose acknowledged fears that AI could displace jobs but insisted unions cannot resist progress.
“We must recognise that the world is moving in a direction that we cannot hold,” he said. “Our responsibility is to recognise the issues and advocate for the rights of workers to be respected regardless of the situation.”
He called for unions to embrace digital transformation while pushing for stronger safeguards, including updated legislation and collective bargaining agreements that address AI’s impact.
Part of the gathering at the May Day Rally.
Reflecting on Labour Day’s significance, Monrose saluted workers’ contributions and the ongoing fight for better conditions. He acknowledged progress, such as the government’s establishment of a dedicated labour tribunal.
“We trust that this will help with the timely dispensation of justice, with issues arising from the workplace,” he said.
The struggle for decent work and social justice continues, Monrose insisted, adding that every Labour Day, unions must assess how far they’ve come and what remains to be done.
Closing with a call for solidarity, he urged workers to unite as “they are all in the same struggle”.
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