27 Nov 2023
NASSAU, The Bahamas – The International Labour Organization (ILO) heaped praise on the Bahamas Industrial Tribunal (BIT) during the inauguration of the 2023/2024 term, emphasizing the remarkable success of its digital transformation efforts under President Indira Demeritte-Francis.
Under the theme “Stepping up to the Digital Frontier of AI,” the ceremony showcased the Tribunal’s commitment to modernizing dispute resolution, a transformation that has garnered global recognition.
Mr. Joni Musabayana, Director of the International Labour Organisation, Caribbean Region, representing the ILO, specifically lauded the BIT’s strategic collaboration with the Caribbean Agency for Justice Solutions (CAJS). The digital strides made by the Tribunal, including the recent integration of AI technology into administrative processes, were highlighted as key factors contributing to the resolution of an unprecedented 61 cases within a swift three-month period.
President Demeritte-Francis, in her address, noted that statistics based on the work of the Tribunal over the past year, provided tangible evidence of the success of efforts to modernize the systems and processes at the Tribunal. collaboration, showcasing the efficient resolution of cases and the institution’s ability to adapt to the evolving landscape of labor relations.
“I must commend both the hardworking staff at Tribunal as well as the dedicated team at the Caribbean Agency for Justice Solutions for the achievement of the past year. As we enter the 2023/2024 term, we plan to embrace Artificial Intelligence, or AI, to achieve even greater efficiencies and new levels of service excellence.”
She underscored the role of CAJS in upgrading the Tribunal’s technological infrastructure, facilitating capacity building and supporting in policy development and change management.
The ILO endorsement serves as validation for the Tribunal’s innovative approach to industrial relations and justice delivery. The commendation signifies that the collaboration between the Bahamas Industrial Tribunal and CAJS has not only set a regional benchmark, it positions the Nassau-based Tribunal as a standard-bearer for other labour tribunals and courts aspiring to achieve similar success in Caribbean and around the world.
Caption (l to r): Vice-President Ingrid Cooper-Brooks, Vice-President Helen Almorales-Jones, President Indira Demeritte-Francis, Vice-President Sharada Humes Ferguson, and Vice-President Rionda Godet.
ABOUT BAHAMAS INDISTRIAL TRIBUNAL
The Bahamas Industrial Tribunal (BIT) was established to address and resolve disputes between employers and employees in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. The Tribunal plays a pivotal role in maintaining industrial harmony and upholding the principles of fairness and justice.