Grenada - Labor

Grenada's labor force was estimated at 42,300 in 1996. The distribution of the employed labor force in 1999 was agriculture, 24%; industry, 14%; and services, 62%. In that year unemployment was estimated at 11.5%.

Approximately 25% of the labor force is unionized. There are several major trade unions in the country, including civil service unions. All major unions belong to one major federation, the Grenada Trade Unions Council (GTUC). The GTUC is somewhat connected to the government organizationally and receives subsidies from the government for its operating budget. Workers are free to strike and employees who claim to have been dismissed for union activism may seek redress through formal governmental procedures. Workers engage in collective bargaining.

In 2002, there were no minimum wage laws in effect. In general, wages do not provide a decent living for a family. The minimum working age is 18. This minimum age is respected and enforced in the formal economy, but enforcement is somewhat lax in the informal economy and agriculture. The constitution sets the maximum workweek at 40 hours. Health and safety standards are not regularly enforced.