V.C. Bird Day in Antigua and Barbuda
V.C. Bird Day is a public holiday in Antigua and Barbuda, held on 9 December in honour of Sir Vere Cornwall Bird Snr.[1] The date recognizes a leader whose trade-union work, national political career and involvement in Caribbean integration shaped the country’s modern history.[2]
A public holiday set by law
The Public Holidays (Amendment) Act, 2019 names the holiday Sir Vere Cornwall Bird Snr. Day and sets it on 9 December each year. If 9 December falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the following Monday is a public holiday.[1]
The Labour Code says employees generally cannot be required to work on a public holiday, except in emergencies, and provides for public-holiday pay. The Public Holidays Act says banks, shops, stores and public offices are to keep the day as a close holiday. It allows exceptions for necessary pharmacy services, early-morning food sales and public markets, petrol stations and emergency vehicle repairs; further shop-opening permissions may be made by order.[3][4]
Bird’s labour and political career
Bird’s public life grew from his work with the Antigua Trades and Labour Union and his advocacy for working people. CARICOM credits that involvement with better pay and working conditions, the abolition of child labour and benefits for retired workers.[2]
He helped lead Antigua and Barbuda through universal adult suffrage, internal self-government and independence. He became the country’s first Chief Minister, Antigua’s Premier in 1967 and the first Prime Minister of independent Antigua and Barbuda in 1981.[2]
A national and regional legacy
The commemoration connects Bird’s national political career with his work for Caribbean unity. He was one of the signatories to the 1965 CARIFTA Agreement and was involved in regional integration from the period of Federation through CARIFTA to CARICOM.[2]
A V.C. Bird Day Celebration is included in the portfolio of the Ministry of Sports and Creative Industries.[5]
Planning around the holiday
Expect public offices, banks and most shops and stores to close under the Public Holidays Act, subject to the stated exceptions and any permitted shop-opening orders. Check with individual transport operators before travelling.[3][4]
Frequently asked questions
When is V.C. Bird Day?
It is observed on 9 December each year. When that date falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the following Monday is a public holiday.[1]
Is V.C. Bird Day a day off for workers?
The Labour Code generally says employees cannot be required to work on a public holiday, except in emergencies. It also sets rules for public-holiday pay, including when an employee works.[3]
What is likely to be closed?
The Public Holidays Act treats public holidays as close holidays for banks, shops, stores and public offices. It provides exceptions for certain essential services and other specified sales.[4]
Are there documented ceremonies or special foods?
A V.C. Bird Day Celebration is included in the portfolio of the Ministry of Sports and Creative Industries.[5]
Sources and references
Sources used for V.C Bird Day in Antigua & Barbuda:
- Public Holidays (Amendment) Act, 2019- Laws of Antigua and Barbuda
- Rt. Hon. Vere Cornwall Bird- Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
- The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Code- Laws of Antigua and Barbuda
- The Public Holidays Act- Laws of Antigua and Barbuda
- Ministry of Sports & Creative Industries- Government of Antigua and Barbuda