A local woman has been awarded more than $61,000 by the Industrial Court after the court found that Sheer Rocks Restaurant and Bar unfairly dismissed her by removing her from the work roster following the birth of her child. According to Antigua News Room, the ruling was delivered on 22 May 2026.
Joshuanette Francis began working at the restaurant in 2016 and later rose to the position of Junior Supervisor. In October 2020, she was removed from the work roster. The court heard that no termination letter was issued, and she was not reinstated when her maternity leave ended in November 2021.
The court ruled that the employer had a legal obligation under the Labour Code to return Francis to work following her maternity leave but failed to do so. It described the dismissal as harsh and oppressive, noting that Francis was left without any communication or explanation after giving birth.
Francis was awarded a total of $61,118.32, comprising compensation for lost wages, vacation pay, loss of protection, notice pay, exemplary damages, and legal costs. The employer has been ordered to pay the full award by 30 June 2026.
Among the damages awarded, the court granted $20,000 in exemplary damages. The court found that the employer was aware of Francis's employment status and had completed documentation supporting her maternity benefits, yet still failed to return her to the roster — a factor the court weighed heavily in its decision.
Speaking after the ruling, Francis said the outcome represented a victory following a lengthy legal battle. She encouraged other workers facing similar circumstances to stand up for their rights.
Francis was represented by Samuel A. James and Simon Leonard of the Antigua and Barbuda Free Trade Union.
