09/08/2026
Montserrat Civil Service Association Participates in Caribbean Public Services Association 54th Annual Conference
The Montserrat Civil Service Association (MCSA) was proudly represented at the 54th Annual Conference of the Caribbean Public Services Association (CPSA), held in Grenada from 18–24 July 2026 under the theme:
"One Voice: Organizing and Transitioning for the Future."
The MCSA delegation comprised four members of the Executive:
President: Sis Michelle C.O.Cassell
Vice President: Bro Lester J.D. Ryan
Men's Committee Chair: Bro Jovarn Thornhill
Women's Committee Chair: Sis Althea Allen
The Conference brought together representatives from fifteen (15) affiliate unions across the Caribbean, providing an invaluable platform for regional collaboration, leadership development, policy dialogue, and knowledge sharing among public sector trade unions.
Opening Ceremony
The official Opening Ceremony was held on Sunday, 19 July 2026, at the Radisson Grand Ballroom, where President Michelle Cassell delivered fraternal greetings on behalf of the Montserrat Civil Service Association. Her address reaffirmed the Association's commitment to regional solidarity and the strengthening of the Caribbean trade union movement.
Specialized Forums
During the Conference, delegates participated in a series of specialized forums designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities facing different sectors of the trade union movement.
Women's Forum
Sis Althea Allen participated in the Women's Forum, held from 20–21 July 2026, where discussions focused on issues including Transforming Union Culture and Leadership Development. The sessions examined strategies for strengthening women's participation in trade unions while promoting inclusive leadership and organizational transformation.
Men's Forum
Bro Jovarn Thornhill represented the Association at the Men's Forum, hosted at Amerij Farm. He participated in workshops exploring "Building the Societies We Want" and "Environmental Stewardship," highlighting the important role trade unions play in promoting sustainable development, social responsibility, and resilient communities.
Young Workers Forum
Vice President Bro Lester Ryan participated in the Young Workers Forum, hosted at the T.A. Marryshow Community College (TAMCC) from 20–21 July 2026. The programme featured a number of interactive workshops and panel discussions, including a live session led by the Honourable Dickon Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada, which examined the future of youth leadership, innovation, and public service in the Caribbean.
President Michelle Cassell also served as a Forum Facilitator during the Young Workers Forum. On 20 July 2026, she delivered an engaging and interactive presentation entitled:
"The Future of Work: Young Workers Driving Transition."
Her presentation explored the rapidly changing world of work, the impact of emerging technologies, evolving workplace trends, and the importance of preparing young workers to thrive in a dynamic employment landscape. She challenged participants not merely to adapt to change but to become agents of transformation by embracing innovation, strengthening their leadership skills, and helping to shape modern, resilient trade unions capable of meeting the needs of future generations.
Business Sessions
The Conference concluded with the Business Sessions, held from 22–24 July 2026 at the Grenada Trade Centre Annex. Delegates deliberated on regional policy matters, organizational governance, strategic planning, and resolutions aimed at advancing the interests of public sector workers throughout the Caribbean.
For the Montserrat Civil Service Association, participation in these sessions was particularly significant. As a relatively new Executive, the Conference provided an important opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Montserrat's role within the wider Caribbean trade union movement, while strengthening relationships with regional affiliates.
The knowledge gained through the Conference will assist the Executive in enhancing the Association's advocacy, leadership capacity, and strategic direction. Equally important were the opportunities for networking, training, and the exchange of best practices, all of which will contribute to building a stronger and more responsive Association for the benefit of its members.
The MCSA extends its sincere appreciation to the Caribbean Public Services Association and the Grenada Public Workers Union as hosts for organizing a successful and enriching Conference. The Association remains committed to applying the knowledge and experiences gained to strengthen representation, promote workers' rights, and contribute meaningfully to the continued advancement of the regional labour movement.