The Windward Islands Civil Servants Union – Private Sector Union (WICSU-PSU) extends its deepest condolences on the passing of our member, Mr. Wayne Drummond, following injuries sustained in a workplace incident on September 20, 2026.
On behalf of the President, Board, staff, and entire membership of WICSU-PSU, we extend our heartfelt sympathy to his sisters, Marlene and Margaret, his seven children, his seven grandchildren, and his entire family. We also extend our condolences to our members at Maho, his colleagues, friends, and all those affected by his passing.
This press release is issued with the knowledge and blessing of Mr. Drummond’s family. The family wishes to thank the public, his colleagues, friends, and everyone who reached out, prayed for Wayne, offered words of comfort, or provided support during this difficult time. They are deeply grateful for the compassion shown to them.
Mr. 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. Regrettably, WICSU-PSU learned on September 29 that he had passed away as a result of his injuries.
Prior to Mr. Drummond’s passing, while he was receiving medical treatment, WICSU-PSU formally wrote to the management of the Maho Group of Companies raising concerns about the incident and requesting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding it. The Union sought information regarding the training provided to Mr. 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 this release, WICSU-PSU had not yet received a formal response from management to its correspondence. It was also brought to the attention of the Union by Mr. Drummond’s family that, to date, they had not been contacted by Maho regarding the incident. WICSU-PSU believes that open and compassionate communication with the family is particularly important given the seriousness of the circumstances and the loss they have now suffered.
After almost 30 years of service, and following an incident at his workplace that ultimately resulted in his death, Mr. Drummond’s family understandably has questions and is seeking answers regarding what occurred.
Upon learning of Mr. Drummond’s passing on September 29, WICSU-PSU immediately wrote to the Minister responsible for Labor, Honorable Claret Connor, seeking his urgent intervention. The correspondence was submitted on behalf of Mr. Drummond’s family and the workers represented by the Union and reiterated the need for an investigation.
WICSU-PSU requested clarification as to 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.
The investigation requested by WICSU-PSU was necessary when Mr. Drummond was first seriously injured. His passing now makes a full, transparent, and thorough investigation even more essential.
WICSU-PSU is pursuing this matter on behalf of Mr. Drummond’s family and, equally importantly, the workers we represent. 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.
Every worker should be able to report for duty with confidence that the necessary training, protective equipment, safety procedures, and safeguards are in place. Every worker has the right to go to work in a safe environment and return home safely to his or her family.
The Union will not speculate on the cause of the incident or assign responsibility before the relevant authorities have completed their investigation. We will, however, continue to ask the necessary questions, seek answers, and advocate for transparency, accountability, and the protection of our members.
WICSU-PSU also recognizes the emotional impact of Mr. Drummond’s passing on our members and other employees at Maho, many of whom worked alongside him for years. We encourage 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.
We mourn with the family, we stand with our members, and we will continue to seek answers.
May Wayne Drummond rest in eternal peace.
WICSU-PSU
Standing with workers. Protecting workers. Representing workers.
