WICSU-PSU says Maho has not responded to investigation request following fatal workplace incident

GREAT BAY--The Windward Islands Civil Servants Union–Private Sector Union (WICSU-PSU) says it has received no formal response from the management of the Maho Group of Companies after requesting an investigation into the workplace incident that left longtime employee Wayne Drummond severely injured and ultimately resulted in his death.

The Union had formally written to Maho management while Drummond was still receiving medical treatment, raising concerns about the September 20 incident and requesting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding it. WICSU-PSU sought information regarding the training provided to Drummond, the personal protective equipment and protective attire required and provided, the applicable safety procedures and protocols, and the support being provided to him and his family.

At the time of issuing its statement on September 29, WICSU-PSU said it had still not received a formal response from management to that correspondence. The Union also said Drummond’s family had informed it that they had not been contacted by Maho regarding the incident.

WICSU-PSU said open and compassionate communication with the family is particularly important given the seriousness of the circumstances and the loss they have now suffered.

Drummond was a long-serving employee of the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, where he worked for almost 30 years. On September 20, he sustained severe burn injuries while reportedly carrying out duties in a boiler room at the resort. He was subsequently medically evacuated to Colombia for further treatment.

WICSU-PSU said it learned on September 29 that Drummond had passed away as a result of his injuries.

Following news of his death, the Union immediately wrote to Minister responsible for Labor Claret Connor seeking his urgent intervention. The correspondence was submitted on behalf of Drummond’s family and the workers represented by WICSU-PSU and reiterated the need for an investigation.

The Union requested clarification on whether the incident was formally reported to the appropriate authorities, whether an occupational health and safety investigation has commenced or can be initiated, and what procedures are required following a workplace incident that results in the death of an employee.

WICSU-PSU said the investigation it requested was necessary when Drummond was first seriously injured and that his passing now makes a full, transparent and thorough investigation even more essential.

After almost 30 years of service, and following an incident at his workplace that ultimately resulted in his death, the Union said Drummond’s family understandably has questions and is seeking answers regarding what occurred.

The Union stressed that it will not speculate on the cause of the incident or assign responsibility before the relevant authorities have completed their investigation. It said, however, that it will continue asking the necessary questions, seeking answers and advocating for transparency, accountability and the protection of its members.

WICSU-PSU said it is pursuing the matter both on behalf of Drummond’s family and the workers it represents.

“As a trade union, our first responsibility is to our members. We have a duty to represent their interests, safeguard their rights, and advocate for safe and decent working conditions,” the Union stated.

It added that every worker should be able to report for duty with confidence that the necessary training, protective equipment, safety procedures and safeguards are in place, and that every worker has the right to work in a safe environment and return home safely to his or her family.

At the same time, WICSU-PSU expressed its condolences to Drummond’s family following his passing.

On behalf of its President, Board, staff and entire membership, the Union extended sympathy to his sisters, Marlene and Margaret, his seven children, his seven grandchildren and his entire family. It also extended condolences to its members at Maho, his colleagues, friends and everyone affected by his passing.

The Union said its statement was issued with the knowledge and blessing of Drummond’s family.

The family also expressed gratitude to members of the public, Drummond’s colleagues, friends and everyone who reached out, prayed for him, offered words of comfort or provided support during what the family described as a difficult period. They said they are deeply grateful for the compassion shown to them.

WICSU-PSU also acknowledged the emotional impact of Drummond’s passing on its members and other employees at Maho, many of whom worked alongside him for years. The Union encouraged management to ensure that appropriate support is made available to employees as they cope with the loss of their colleague.

“To Marlene and Margaret, his seven children, his seven grandchildren, and the entire Drummond family, WICSU-PSU extends its deepest sympathy, strength, and solidarity. We also stand with our members at Maho and all of Wayne’s colleagues during this difficult time,” the Union stated.

“We mourn with the family, we stand with our members, and we will continue to seek answers. May Wayne Drummond rest in eternal peace.”

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