TUC President Obie Ferguson urges members to skip work

Trade Union Congress (TUC) President Obie Ferguson is facing mounting criticism for his divisive call for members of 14 unions under the TUC umbrella—including air traffic controllers, doctors, nurses, and customs and immigration officers—to refrain from reporting to work on Monday and Tuesday.

The move has sparked backlash from some union leaders and government officials, who accuse Ferguson of undermining ongoing negotiations.

Ferguson, who claims that nearly every union under the TUC has unresolved issues with the government, has instructed members to take "call-in days," arguing that they are entitled to six days off per year without repercussions.

He assured them that missing work on Monday and Tuesday would not result in any adverse consequences, citing their entitlement to medical and call-in days.

Ferguson’s hardline approach is said to be causing unnecessary disruption at a time when significant progress is being made on labor issues.

Prime Minister Philip Davis, whose administration has been working with union representatives to address long-standing grievances, has expressed his disappointment with Ferguson’s decision, according to sources.

Despite repeated attempts to contact the TUC president, including both phone calls and emails, Davis has not received a response, with sources close to the matter saying that the TUC president has gone "radio silent."

Freddie Munnings, a prominent trade unionist, and attorney Keod Smith have also reported difficulties reaching Ferguson. This lack of communication has further fueled concerns that Ferguson is undermining efforts to resolve labor disputes through continued dialogue, as was previously agreed upon.

Labour officials were hopeful of resolving the majority of outstanding union matters by the end of January. However, Ferguson’s calls for industrial action have thrown a wrench in those plans, leading some to question his motivations.

Critics of Ferguson are also accusing him of using the union leadership to further his own personal ambitions. Some union members believe Ferguson has compromised their interests in exchange for his recent appointment as a King’s Counsel (KC), a prestigious legal title.

They argue that he is more focused on maintaining his personal standing than on securing tangible gains for workers.