Labour Day Supplement 01-05-2024

President Ali: Worker unity compromised by fractured labour movement

GIVEN the security a united labour movement provides, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali has highlighted the need for the government, the private sector, and the labour movement to co-operate for the upliftment of workers.

“I am prepared to be part of fashioning a new era of relations among government, labour movement and the private sector,” the Head of State said during his 2023 Labour Day message.

He recognised that yet another ‘May Day’ finds the local labour movement divided, which undermines worker solidarity; this is far from desirable in protecting workers' rights and consolidating their gains.

“It is the primary responsibility of workers themselves to restore a bigger vitality and accountability in their unions. A new compact is needed between labour and the government and between the labour movement and its members,” President Ali said.

He advocated for the establishment of platforms of co-operation predicated on respect and civility and characterised by co-operation.

“Let us work together to end exploitation, eradicate child labour, improve workers’ safety, ensure social protections, address labour shortages, and ensure greater competitiveness and efficiency, all of which are vital to long term and sustainable

growth and development,” Dr. Ali said.

The President related his openness to a tripartite dialogue among the groups of stakeholders.

Additionally, the Head of State said that ‘May Day’ pays homage to the struggles and sacrifices of workers and their continued contributions to development.

“We, the inheritors of the gains of these struggles, have an obligation to consolidate workers’ rights and advances,” he said.

President Ali related that in a world in which the role of capital and technology is increasingly given the spotlight, the contributions of workers should never be understated or underestimated.

“No great human achievement, be it scientific, technological, economic, or political, can discount the decisive

role of workers. Through their industry, intelligence, initiative and [intuition], workers have transformed the forces of production, creating wealth and enhancing progress,” he said.

While Guyana is currently on an irreversible trajectory towards greater progress and prosperity, President Ali said that workers are pivotal to the success of this process.

“Without their brain and skill, steadfastness, creativity and craftsmanship, economic and social transformation will stall,” Dr. Ali said.

The Head of State continued: “I assure all the workers of Guyana that not only will they benefit significantly from the country’s economic and social transformation, but that they will be one of the principal forces driving this process.”

The President said his government's developmental philosophy emphasises a people-centred approach to development with the welfare of people, particularly workers, at the centre of efforts to establish shared national prosperity.

He added that it is because they care about the working class that they reintroduced the “Because We Care” cash grant to support parents in educating their chil-

- calls for a new era in government, labour movement, and private sector relations

dren.

“Despite serious constraints we faced upon assuming office in August 2020, we set out to bring immediate relief to households. It is because we are a working class government that we have supported workers in key sectors of the economy. It is because we value our workers that we paid benefits to our heroic frontline health and security sector workers and adjusted the salaries of others in

the security and health sector,” Dr. Ali said.

Noting that they are committed to progressively improving workers' disposable income, he said that they increased the minimum wage of private sector workers, enhanced public sector wages, removed the burden of unconscionable taxes, and took steps to cushion inflation. (First published on the May 2, 2023 edition)

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

National urgency: Labour Minister calls for collective action on Occupational Safety and Health

IN a fervent call to action, Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton, emphasised the critical importance of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) for all Guyanese citizens during the Ministry of Labour’s mini–OSH Exhibition and Demonstration held at the ministry’s forecourt at Brickdam, Georgetown.

“We need to start seeing Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) as everybody’s business,” Minister Hamilton said last Wednesday.

During the programme, stakeholders from the Ministry’s OSH Department showcased demonstrations and shared their insights, actively engaging attendees in their mis-

sion to promote safe and healthy work environments in Guyana.

Minister Hamilton in his brief remarks boldly stated, “We have to start seeing Occupational Safety and Health as everybody’s business. It is not just a conversation for employers and employees; this has to be a national conversation, because the problem we have is a national problem, that all of us, we have to try together to fix.”

The minister emphasised the importance of addressing this matter in homes too in order to extend the scope of occupational safety and health beyond the workplace.

Minister Hamilton also mentioned that his ministry is

actively working on expanding the discussion on OSH to include a dedicated communication and public relations initiative that focuses on bringing OSH awareness to households.

“Health and safety are national matters. It must be in our national consciousness as Guyanese. And normally I’d say this and I’ll repeat: we have two options as Guyanese; one, we go along our merry way thinking that this is a matter that’s not so important, or, we change and recognise that we have to adopt a different attitude to this matter.”

“If we choose the former, and don’t respond, I can assure you that we need to

Minister Joseph Hamilton at an exhibition booth on Wednesday

National urgency: Labour Minister calls for...

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prepare to attend a lot of wake houses, play dominoes and cards and bury people the next day, if we don’t change as a nation,” he said.

The minister encouraged the audience to embrace the teachings of OSH and become its followers. He remarked, “For me, death at workplaces are not statistics; they are people.”

“It’s not a statistics game as to more than and less than death. These are people whose family will grieve and mourn. Communities will grieve and mourn. Workplaces will grieve and mourn. And for

the employers, it affects your business in all respects: production, productivity, bad name to your business. And no more, employers must believe that this is an expense they cannot bear. Failure to bear this expense, you will have greater expense to deal with when people die, or lose limbs or are incapacitated at workplaces,” he noted.

“If we don’t take cognizance of safety and health, more people will die. It’s a simple equation. The more roads we build, the more infrastructure; we expand. If we don’t take precautions, more people will die.”

Minister Joseph Hamilton (centre) flanked by exhibitors at Wednesday’s mini-OSH exhibition (Japheth Savory photos)

2024 Labour Day Messages

PPP/C: Labour Day celebrates our important human resources, highlight their invaluable contributions

ON the occasion of Labour Day, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) extends best wishes to all workers throughout Guyana.

This observance, which celebrates our important human resources, allows workers to rally in solidarity with each other and further highlight their invaluable contributions towards the development of Guyana. Since re-establishing the Ministry of Labour in 2020, our government has been working assiduously to address the issues that were plaguing workers throughout the 2015-2020 stint of the APNU+AFC Coalition in office, from mass retrenchments and

dismissals to the massive loss of jobs brought about their incompetence.

The PPP has always been and remains steadfastly committed to the welfare of our workers, the sanctity and safety of their working environments, the evolution of laws and regulations that govern their working

conditions, and most definitely the improvement of wages, salaries, and other benefits commensurate with the growth of the economy and in tandem with the execution of the government’s national transformational agenda. Our party campaigned on a manifesto of promises to be executed during the tenure of the Dr. Irfaan Ali-led Administration and was victorious in securing a definitive mandate from the elec -

torate. We are satisfied that the government has made steady and significant progress and remains on track to fulfilling all of its commitments to the Guyanese workers. Very early within this current tenure of our government, burdensome taxes and fees imposed by the previous government were reversed, and the education cash grant for the children of our workers which was taken away, was restored and more than doubled.

To date, thousands of jobs have been restored and tens of thousands of new ones created to allow our citizens dignified entitlements and the chance to provide for their families, while a slew of measures were introduced to ease the burdens brought on by the global rise in the costof-living, including the maintenance of a waiver of excise taxes on fuel, allowing prices to remain constant at the pumps and consequently, more disposable income in the pockets of workers.

Further, tens of thousands of house lots have been allocated to Guyanese across all sectors, the Guyana Online Academy of Learning has surpassed its targeted twenty thousand scholarship awards and the T-Vet and Board of Industrial Skills Training programmes have

been expanded to reach every nook and cranny of our country, while improvements to national infrastructure have been moving apace, allowing workers of all sectors to begin enjoying improved commutes to and from work.

With regard to direct interventions, the government has placed our security forces, our health care workers, our teachers, and other public servants on a path of transformation, while efforts are in train to build on these interventions and expand their depth and reach across the national labour force.

Our party is resolute in its philosophical outlook that positions the workforce as the bastions of the Guyanese society and their daily contributions to national development will remain the cornerstone upon which the modern, resilient, and prosperous ‘One Guyana’ will emerge.

The PPP salutes our workers, their indefatigable commitment to nation-building, and their resolve to keep agitating for further betterment in their welfare. Long live the Guyanese Worker and the Guyanese Labour Movement. Happy Labour Day from the People’s Progressive Party

2024 Labour Day Messages

GAWU: Critchlow’s struggles for the working class are saluted

The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) finds the opportunity befitting to recognise and recall the significant and varied contributions of Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, rightly deemed the “Father of Trade Unionism” in our country.

Critchlow’s contributions to the upliftment and advancement of the working people of our country have been recorded in history as a testament to his unwavering belief and commitment to his principles of justice for the working class.

Critchlow’s defence of workers emerged during a great upheaval in British Guiana. At that time, the pressures on the working class were mounting, and the owner class, though able, was unwilling to ease the burdens the workers were made to carry. Indeed, it must have been a rude awakening when the waterfront workers, under the leadership of Critchlow, decided to down tools and demand fairness and justice. For his efforts, Critchlow was asked to withdraw his demands or be sent home. He chose the latter, and it was a clear demonstration of where his loyalties stood. Indeed, it must have earned

him the respect and admiration of his colleagues, more so in the face of the immense pressure he would have faced.

His later establishment of the British Guiana Labour Union (BGLU) was a clear signal of his commitment to working class aspirations and ideals. He would have undoubtedly faced great difficulty and hardship to reach the pinnacle of the BGLU, but his perseverance and determination brought him to that high point.

Critchlow’s later efforts in leading the regional trade union efforts and his demands in favour of the working-class were clear indicators of how he regarded the workers’ involvement.

Critchlow’s experience in the workers’ struggle led him to the view that the established capitalist system was not beneficial to the working class. In December 1930, in an address to members of his union, he called for workers to fight against capitalism and to struggle for the establishment of socialism. Notably as well, Critchlow championed demands for the extension of the right to vote so that all workers could participate in national elections.

The GAWU urges that

in our celebration of Labour Week, we as a class within society should take account of the advances we have made since Critchlow and keep before us the challenges that still lie in our path. We believe that together, we can overcome those obstacles and blaze a path for a better tomorrow – a path that can fittingly honour the memory of our working-class hero –Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow. Happy May Day to all Guyanese workers.

‘A holistic upliftment of workers underway in Guyana’ - President Ali says

WITH Guyana poised for significant growth in various industries, there is a growing need for skilled professionals to fill the demand. However, simply increasing the number of skilled workers is not enough.

To ensure their success and enable them to thrive, President, Dr Irfaan Ali is calling for a “holistic upliftment”

of workers in Guyana that addresses not only their technical skills, but also their social and emotional well-being.

During a breakfast meeting on May 1, 2023 with leaders of various trade unions in honour of Labour Day, the President said that Guyana’s interest must always be placed first, especially its human resources.

“This requires a healthy, strong professional conversation between all stakeholders, especially the government and the labour movement. That is why as we move forward, we will have a broadened grouping dealing with human-resource analytics.

“But we'll have to move away now to this broader concept of hu-

man-resource analytics, because you [trade unions] will be part of a new, modern era that generates human resources that will be part of empowering and producing the necessary human resources for our country,” he said.

With Guyana currently constructing several internationally branded hotels in Regions Two, Four and Six, the President said that the country is faced with the issue of labour shortage, especially in skilled labour.

President Ali said that this “holistic” vision is aimed at ensuring that workers are equipped with the necessary tools and support to meet the demands of a changing job market. However, by taking a comprehensive approach to uplifting workers, he hopes to create a more resilient and sustainable workforce that can adapt to changing circumstances and thrive in the long term.

Dr Ali added that one of the issues with which the government is faced is recruiting and training of persons by the end of next year.

“Six thousand to be trained in different areas of hospitality by the time we get up to 2024 or otherwise, we will be in a crisis. The hotels are already saying, ‘We are not finding workers.’ A lot of pressures on the system.

“… I met with all

the major contractors, private and public, and they said to me, ‘We can’t find labourers.’ And, you find, because the salary is so large now, people are working a day pay of a minimum of $10,000,” the Head of State said.

Dr Ali related that the discipline in the workforce is eroding, since workers only show up to work for two or three days a week and are content with earning a salary of $30,000 for that limited amount of work.

NEGATIVE CONSEQUENCES

This behaviour is seen as problematic because it indicates a lack of commitment and dedication to the job, which could, in turn, have negative consequences for both the individual worker and the organization for which they work.

“That is a major, major problem that we will

have to address,” President Ali said, noting that the government is taking a holistic approach to tackling the issue.

“When I speak about the holistic worker, together, all of us now have to educate our workers on productivity, staying disciplined, staying in the labour force, the consistency of labour, it is going to be a major, major problem,” the Head of State said.

Under Budget 2023, parents and guardians of 214,000 schoolchildren will receive $40,000, which amounts to $8.6 billion.

The education grant, the income-tax threshold adjustment, the salary adjustment, and the expansion of the parttime job programme are part of the billions of dollars being put back into the pockets of people, as the government

President, Dr Irfaan Ali (Office of the President photos)

A holistic upliftment...

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seeks to increase disposable income.

Additionally, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government also removed the 200 plus taxes instituted by the PNC/R, distributed a $150,000 one-off fisherfolk cash grant, and introduced other measures.

The PPP/C government has implemented several measures to assist persons with disabilities, including a $25,000 cash grant for training, equipment, hearing aids and other medical supplies, and entrepreneurial development.

The government has also provided public assistance to approximately 8,000 Guyanese living with disabilities, and every child living with a permanent dis-

ability will receive a one-off cash grant of $100,000.

Outside of this, President Ali said that the government is focused on pursuing “more benefits” for pensioners, for which “broad discussions” will soon commence.

“This is where we want things to go on what constitutes holistic upliftment of workers and not just salary … [To] allow the worker to enjoy the best possible working life, but more importantly, a life that allows them to retire in dignity,” he said.

Leaders from the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU); the Guyana Agricultural & General Workers Union (GAWU); the Clerical and Commercial Workers Union (CCWU); the National Association of Agriculturalal, Com -

mercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE); the Guyana Labour Union (GLU) and the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) were all present at the breakfast meeting at State House.

However, the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) and General Workers Union (GWU) boycotted the meeting. (First published in the May 2, 2023 edition)

President, Dr Irfaan Ali (centre) with other government officials and Heads of various labour unions

2024 Labour Day Messages

GPSU: Time to reflect on

May 1, 2024 marks a historic day in the history of the Trade Union Movement in Guyana and internationally.

As is customary, workers celebrate this day in unity by joining with their trade union leaders in parades and rallies throughout the ten administrative regions of Guyana.

Time is spent reflecting on the struggles and achievements of our forefathers and to the forging of new relations to

overcome the challenges ahead, while taking advantage of opportunities presented.

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) would be participating in the annual parade through the Streets of Georgetown and other regions of Guyana. The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Galvanizing and Mobilizing for Workers’ Empowerment and an Equal Share of the Oil Wealth’.

As an affiliate of the

the workers’ struggles, achievements

Public Services International, the GPSU endorses its statement that “Public Service Workers are the

foundations of the struggle for peace, solidarity and democracy amidst escalating conflict and crises”.

The Trade Union Movement provides a common platform to approach common issues in pursuit of economic and social justice for the workers of Guyana and the movement worldwide in the advancement of their interests.

The GPSU would be making a presentation on

May 1, 2024 at the May Day After-Parade Rally at the Guyana Teachers Union Sports Hall, Woolford Avenue, Georgetown.

Dr. Gerald Forde, Economic and Project Officer of the GPSU Executive Council, would be our presenter.

The Executive Council of the GPSU fully endorses Dr. Forde statements on issues that perforates the society in Guyana.

ERC: Workers drive the economy, shape the future

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) extends heartfelt appreciation to all Guyanese as we celebrate Labour Day, a significant occasion dedicated to honouring the contributions of workers across our nation.

Labour Day serves as a tribute to the hard work, dedication, and resilience

of workers from all walks of life who contribute tirelessly to the development and prosperity of Guyana. It is a day to recognise the invaluable role of workers in driving our economy forward, building our communities, and shaping the future of our nation.

Trade unions regard the occasion as a time to take

stock of the gains made and challenges faced by the labour movement over the past year. Their underlying focus is premised on workers’ rights.

Labour Day also provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of unity and solidarity among workers of different backgrounds and ethnicities.

In a diverse society like Guyana, it is essential that we come together, in harmony, to support each other and work towards common goals that benefit all.

The mandate of the ERC is synonymous with promulgating good relations within the work environment. The Commis-

sion, therefore, embraces any initiative to empower citizens of all ethnic groups through education and training to equip them

for Guyana’s accelerating economy.

The ERC remains committed to working with all stakeholders in promoting a work environment that engenders peace, diversity and tolerance. Let us recognize and celebrate the contributions of workers in every sector, and let us strive to create a society where every worker is valued, empowered, and treated with dignity and respect.

Happy Labour Day to all!

2024 Labour Day Messages

CCWU General Secretary Sherwood Clarke: Trade Union Movement has a place in Guyana’s development

The Trade Union Movement has a vested interest in the development of Guyana. More than that, it has a right and duty to be actively involved in the development task.

DEVELOPMENT AND THE WORKERS’ STANDARD OF LIVING

The whole purpose of Trade Unionism is to secure the best conditions of life for its members, the workers. The standard of life that the workers can achieve depends upon the country’s economy.

If the country is poor and backward, the workers’ wages and working and living conditions will generally be poor. No amount of trade union militancy will be able to change this fact. On the other hand, as the country prospers, as the wealth generated within the economy increases, there will be larger surpluses for distribution to the workers by way of wages and other benefits.

Put another way, as the national cake gets bigger, every worker can get a larger slice. But the national cake can only get bigger if we develop Guyana.

THE DEVELOPMENT PROCESS

Development is a complex process. It involves expanding economic activity by setting up new industries, exploiting new resources, and creating new employment opportunities.

It also implies greater efficiency in the management of economic enterprises and greater productivity for the workers. It necessitates the improvement of workers’ skills capability and general education, not merely to enable them to be more efficient on the job but, importantly also, to enable them to live fuller and more enjoyable lives

Sherwood Clarke

as human beings. For us in Guyana, development must also mean the establishment of institutions and procedures to ensure that the wealth generated within the economy is distributed equitably and that workers secure the just rewards of their Labour.

The Trade Union Movement, then, has a self-interest in promoting the development of Guyana.

DEVELOPMENT AND WORKERS’ EDUCATION

The whole business of development begins and ends with people. They are the agents of development, but they are also its beneficiaries. The success of our development efforts will depend, therefore, upon how well workers perform their tasks and also how sensibly they utilize the fruits of development.

TRADE UNIONS’ RESPONSIBILITY FOR WORKERS’ EDUCATION

Education is the basic task of the a Trade Union Movement in the discharge of its responsibility for national development. This education must be of a three-fold nature: 1. It must help workers

attitudes and habits, in the context of the country’s development. He must be aware of national issues, as they relate to development, and try to understand how and why they affect him and his comrades.

STRENGTHENING THE WORKERS’ ECONOMIC BASE

The Trade Union Movement has the potential for promoting a wide range of economic activity among its members. Such economic activity not only helps to strengthen the financial base of workers but helps in process of the country’s development.

to improve their skills, thereby increasing their efficiency and fostering pride in their work.

2. It must inspire relevant attitudes, based upon an understanding of the objectives and broad national goals.

3. It must encourage them to accept a rational scale of value that motivates them to make the most sensible and satisfying use of their talents, money, and time. In other words, it must ensure that workers not only learn how to make a living but learn how to live.

Workers are the decisive factor in the development process. Properly trained and motivated, they constitute the surest foundation upon which our development strategy can be based.

The Trade Union Movement, then, must be tireless in extending the scope and quality of workers’ education.

However, it is not enough for a worker to acquire a high degree of skill or proficiency in his line of work. He needs to appreciate how important he is as an individual, how important his job is, and how important are his own

tion’s stock of economic goods as does every button, handkerchief or table manufactured.

This production is of importance to the national economy in that it reduces the need for importation, saves foreign exchange and enables us to buy more capital goods for development.

Every pepper, lime or head of lettuce which is grown increases the na -

This brings me to an important point. The results of the development process should be the economic and financial security of workers. I don’t think that by the mere reliance on wage they can ever achieve this kind of security. And a system of unemployment does has its psychological disadvantages. The work-

ers’ economic and financial base should be widened beyond the mere wage nexus. CO-OPERATIVES AND WORKERS’ ECONOMIC POWER I suggest, therefore, that it would be consistent with our development strategy and objectives if the Trade Union Movement mobilises the great human and financial potential of its membership into co-operatives societies for economic activity. If properly organised and managed, these societies can bring vast economic resources under the control and ownership of workers. The financial returns flowing from them can give

Workers’ rights, well-being

THE People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) since its election to office in 2020, under the leadership of President, Dr Irfaan Ali, has placed the

rights and well-being of workers, from all walks of life, on the front burner of its aggressive development agenda.

2020

• In 2020, the government immediately rolled out a COVID-19 cash grant, where $25,000 was disbursed per household.

• The monthly old-age pension was increased from $20,500 to $25,000 and public assistance increased from $9,000 to $12,000.

• $3 billion was set-aside in the National Budget for infrastructural development in new housing schemes

• There was the reversal of VAT on electricity and water.

• The removal of VAT and duties on machinery and equipment to allow for the recapitalisation of key sectors such as mining, forestry, agriculture and manufacturing.

• Granting tax concessions on All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) for the aforementioned key sectors.

• The reversal of “land lease fees” which were raised by 1,350 per cent from 2015 to 2020

• The removal of VAT on fertilisers, agro-chemicals and pesticides for the entire agriculture sector

• Reversal of VAT on all exports and the removal of VAT on hinterland travel.

• VAT on all medical supplies were removed.

• Removal of VAT on building and construction materials.

• Removal of VAT on cellphones

• Removal of corporate tax on private education and private healthcare.

• Any license renewed after October 2020 onwards was reduced by 50 per cent

• To stimulate logging, the government changed the log export policy to allow sawmillers to export logs.

• Reversal of the policy to allow for the importation of used tyres and also for the importation of vehicles more than eight years.

• Special incentives for corn and soybeans agriculture.

• Corporate tax relief to financial institutions to increase the limit for low income household loans.

• Special incentive package to attract new hotel investment.

• Waiver of VAT and duties on all medical supplies for COVID-19 testing, prevention, and treatment from March 26, 2020, to June 30, 2020.

• Expedited processing of VAT refunds for businesses and PAYE refunds for employees.

• Tax deductions for donations made by local businesses to staff and health institutions for COVID-19 treatment.

• Year-end bonus for health workers

There was no hesitation by this administration to remove the burdensome taxes that were placed on the backs of workers and ordinary Guyanese

2021

• A one-off, two-week, tax-free, bonus was paid to all government employees in the health sector, at a total estimated cost of $612 million benefiting 9,200 employees in the sector.

• Across-the-board increase for central government employees; $400 million was set aside to be paid to frontline workers in the health sector who continued to face extenuating circumstances in the daily discharge of their duties during the COVID period.

• Seven per cent across-the-board increase to all central government employees along with their December salaries, which placed $10.5 billion in the hands of 50,000 public servants, teachers and members of the Disciplined Services.

• $250,000 one-off cash grant was distributed to each of the severed sugar workers from the Enmore, Skeldon, Rose Hall and Wales Sugar Estates, injecting over $1.3 billion into the surrounding communities.

• Special measures were announced for the provision of a one-off grant of $25,000 to all old-age pensioners, public assistance recipients, and persons living with disabilities.

• Zero excise tax on petroleum products

• Zero-rated tax on basic food items and household necessities from May 2015.

• Reduce water tariffs by five per cent across all consumer levels.

• VAT zero-rated on certain construction materials like imported stone, locally produced concrete piles, mild steel beams, roofing, and PVC products.

• Increase in low-income mortgage loan ceiling from $10 million to $12 million.

• Increase NBS ceiling from $12 million to $15 million.

• Remove VAT on residential and individual data usage.

GOAL PROGRAMME

Outside of the traditional PSM scholarships, Guyana’s Government has made significant investments in the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) programme over the years to provide educational opportunities and develop human capital.

Over 20,000 scholarships have been awarded since 2021 through the GOAL programme, covering 10 administrative regions in Guyana. For the 2024 GOAL programmes, the government has partnered with five new educational institutions, including universities in the UK, Dubai, Dominican Republic, and Costa Rica.

• It expands access to pre-university, vocational, undergraduate, and graduate education programmes, helping to develop the skills and knowledge of the workforce.

The PPP/C government’s investment in the GOAL programme benefits Guyanese workers and the broader population in several ways such as:

• The partnerships with international universities provide opportunities for Guyanese to obtain globally recognized qualifications.

• The scholarships make higher

education more affordable and accessible, especially for those who may not have the financial means to pursue further studies.

• Investing in education and human capital development can enhance the productivity and competitiveness of Guyanese workers, supporting economic growth and diversification.

Since taking office in 2020, People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Administration has distributed more than 30,000 house lots to date, and is working aggressively meet the target of 50,000 the end of its five-year tenure in 2025. For 2023, there were 8,578

well-being prioritised by PPP/C Gov’t

by the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) from 2015-2020. And no effort was spared to further improve the

lives of everyone by instituting a slew of measures, policies and programmes.

Below is a recap of some of the significant

2022

• Increase in Personal Income Tax Threshold: The monthly income-tax threshold was increased from G$65,000 to G$75,000, which means that workers earning up to G$75,000 per month were exempt from paying income tax

• Eight per cent salary increase was announced for all public servants

• Reduction of excise tax on gasoline and diesel: The excise tax on gasoline and diesel was reduced from 20 per cent to zero per cent to boost the manufacturing sector and combat rising international fuel and shipping prices

• Elimination of VAT on cranes, safety equipment, and oil spill response equipment: The 14 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on cranes, safety equipment, and oil spill response equipment was eliminated to support the energy sector

• Elimination of withholding tax on payments to Guyana resident contractors: The two per cent withholding tax on payments made to resident contractors was eliminated to support local businesses and contractors

• Removal of 20 per cent withholding tax on interest income on individuals’ bank savings accounts: The 20 per cent withholding tax on interest income on individuals’ bank savings accounts, where the interest income does not exceed G$10,000 per year, was removed to support individual savings

• Mortgage Interest Relief: The legislation provides relief equivalent to the rate of tax paid by the taxpayer on the gross interest paid on first time mortgages amounting to G$30 million or less

• Deduction of Medical and Life Insurance Premiums: Section 16(1) of the Income Tax Act, Chapter 81:01, introduced in 2022, allows for the deduction of medical and life insurance premiums from individual income, subject to premiums paid, ten per cent (10 per cent) of the individual’s gross income or three hundred and sixty thousand dollars ($360,000) annually whichever is less

• Reduction of Final Tax and Removal of Tax for Workers in the Mining Sector: The Ministry of Finance announced the introduction of legislation to provide major tax relief for the mining sector, including the reduction of final tax from a maximum of 3.5 per cent to 2.5 per cent, and the removal of the 10 per cent tributers tax for workers in the mining sector

• These tax relief measures were aimed at supporting workers, businesses, and the economy in Guyana during a challenging year, with the country experiencing higher international oil prices, increased investment, and the introduction of the second Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, which led to an almost doubling of crude oil exports and an external current account surplus.

• The part-time job initiative was introduced to increase the disposable income of Guyanese and create more employment opportunities

• President, Dr Irfaan Ali had announced sweeping changes to the salaries of several categories of workers in the Disciplined Services of Guyana. The increases benefited ranks of the Guyana Police Force, Guyana Fire Service and the Guyana Defence Force, and reflected a more than $1 billion annualised increase to the sum paid to those workers.

2023

the Party/ Administration

and

initiatives of the Ali-led administration that have benefited workers directly and indirectly:

• Threshold was raised to $85,000

• Public assistance for persons with disabilities was at $16,000

• Because We Care cash grant increased to $35,000, which benefited over 214,000 school children in public and private schools and placed an additional $2.1 billion in the hands of their parents

• Salary adjustments benefiting 5,000 healthcare workers and 9,000 members of the disciplined services

• The zero excise taxes on fuel was maintained so as to absorb the impact of volatile fuel prices

• $10 billion was allocated for the expansion of the part-time job programme.

• $5 billion was allocated for additional cost of living measures to be determined from the ongoing community engagements

• Increase in the low-income mortgage ceiling to $20 million, reducing the cost of borrowing within this range from the Commercial Banks, and further incentives.

• Removal of the 14 per cent VAT with respect to the sale of residential properties to further reduce the cost of home ownership

• Removal of vat from electric vehicles

• In relation to the

• Reduction of the duty of 45 per cent to 35 per cent on the importation of new motor vehicles below 1500 cc

• A 6.5 per cent salary increase retroactive to January 2023 was granted

2024

• Increase of the threshold to $100,000 which meant the 13,000 persons were removed from paying income taxes, and further result in some $4.8 billion being transferred to workers across the country as an increase in disposable income.

• Old-age pension was increased to $36,000; this reflects a 75 per cent increase in old-age pension since 2020 and is set to benefit some 76,000 persons, placing some $2.7 billion in the hands of senior citizens.

• The monthly public assistance received by persons living with disabilities increased to $19,000.

• Because We Care cash grant increased to $40,000 and a uniform voucher allowance of $5,000

• The government has maintained a zero per cent excise tax on petroleum products since March 2022.

• 2024 budget was crafted without the addition of any new taxes, and the government even sought to further remove taxes.

• Removed Value Added Tax (VAT) and duty from sports equipment and essential technology accessories such as chargers, charging cables and headphones, among other things. This provided over $70 billion of relief to businesses and individuals as they try to contain the impact of imported price increases and provide relief to the most vulnerable and promote expansion of the productive sector, job creation and opportunities.

• $10 billion was set aside expand the part-time job programme to allow one person per household to work in public offices in close proximity to their homes and earn $40,000 per month for 10 days per month.

• Small businesses received support in the form of lower interest rates on loans up to $5 million, thereby reducing the cost of financing for establishing new businesses.

• $7 billion was allocated for cost-of-living measures.

• Increase in the deductible cap of life and medical insurance premiums to $50,000 per month or 10 percent of income, whichever is lower.

Housing Opportunities under PPP/C for workers

residential lots allocated. Out of the 30,406 house lots allocated, 28,368 of them were residential.

Youths and women made up a significant portion of the allottees. In fact, it was recorded that 53.3 per cent were youths. That is, 15,119 of the allottees were 35 years old or younger. Additionally, over the last three

years, there was a consistent 40 per cent allocation to women only; however, for 2023, this percentage soared to around 43 per cent.

Also, the PPP/C administration has made significant investments and progress in developing young professional homes.

Last year, the government has commenced the construction of 210 young professional homes at the La Bonne Intention (LBI) Housing Scheme on the East Coast Demerara

An additional 77 elevated young professional houses are also planned to be constructed at the LBI housing development

The government is also building the first 100 young professional homes at the new Silica City development, which is envisioned to be Guyana's first “smart” urban center

Furthermore, the government has announced plans to construct the first 50 young professional homes at the Le-

onora/Groenveldt housing area in Region Three

These initiatives demonstrate the PPP/C government's commitment to providing affordable, high-quality housing options for young professionals in Guyana as part of its broader housing development program across the country.

2024 Labour Day Messages

CCWU General Secretary Sherwood Clarke: Trade Union...

strength and security to the worker which frees him from the uncertainties and fears that the wage nexus engenders.

Development is about people and for people. Our development strategy is designed to put the workers eventually in control of economic power within the state. Such control implies ownership of economic factors. Workers must cease being passive wage-earners, mere tools of production within the economy, and become involved in economic enterprises as managers, owners, and decision-makers.

Co-operatives make possible for the workers the control and ownership of economic factors and the acquisition of real economic power. Co-operatives are thus a powerful instrument for development and the principal means by which we can ensure an equitable distribution of the wealth generated by the economy.

TRADE UNION MOVEMENT AS A MOBILIERS OF SAVINGS

The need to mobilise our savings for national

development. The Trade Union Movement can and ought to be one of the main agencies for mobilising such savings. Through Co-operative Credit and Thrift Societies. The Movement is capable of harnessing the savings of its members.

The proper utilisation of such savings can be a great stimulus to our development. Instead of lending them to buy luxury and other consumer goods, they ought to go into development projects.

The Credit Societies could well be the means of financing the business enterprises of the other co-operative societies sponsored by the Trade Union Movement.

THE TRADE UNION MOVEMENT AND ECONOMIC STABILITY

The success of development efforts will depend upon economic stability. Such stability will be impossible if wages and prices keep chasing each other in a mad, futile race.

On the other hand, the Trade Union Movement has a complementary

duty to resist inflation by avoiding wage demands which are unreasonable, and which (if obtained) do not increase the purchasing power of the workers, in the final analysis.

There is another important reason why the avoidance of excessive wage claims is vital to the success of national development. We still have a substantial number of unemployed people. Indeed, those who have permanent employment are in a favoured position.

Thus, a choice becomes inevitable between distributing surpluses to increase the income of those who already have employment or using them to provide new employment opportunities for those comrades who have no jobs.

Our development can be rapidly achieved if we put all of our idle human hands to work. We cannot afford the waste of economic unemployment.

A careful policy on wages by the Trade Union Movement is necessary to help reduce the level of unemployment as quickly as possible and accelerate

the pace of the country’s development. The policy will only be relevant in the context of continuing stability in the cost of living generally.

INDUSTRIAL AND POLITICAL STABILITY

There are just two final conditions for successful economic development which I would like to mention. There is industrial and political stability.

Development requires a regime of industrial and political peace. No progress can be made if we dissipate our time, energy, and resources in fighting one another.

The economic cost of strikes, sick-outs, goslows, lock-out, and other forms of industrial conflict is enormous. In simple terms, the cost of this kind of conflict reflects itself in fewer new jobs, a slower rate of increase in workers’ real income, and, generally a slowing down of the pace of development.

I am not for the minute suggesting that the Trade Union Movement should abandon its militancy. A Trade Union, which is not militant, is dead or dying. I do suggest, however, that militancy is not the same as rashness or irresponsibility.

It is important to every worker that the rate of development be quickened so that, with the increase in the size of the national cake, he can get a big -

ger share. In other words, his standard of living will increase. This certainly is what the Trade Union Movement is striving for on behalf of its workers. It is certainly what we hope for from the development of Guyana.

The Trade Union Movement in the best interests of the workers, should prevent unnecessary industrial conflict. By fulfilling this obligation with steadfast courage, the Movement can have a direct and powerful influence on the rapid development of the country.

In the final analysis, we need political stability. We can only build Guyana in conditions of peace.

The Trade Union Movement can discharge its responsibility for development only if it first discharges its major duty to ensure political peace.

I have been talking about the Trade Union Movement’s place and role in national development.

The Government has also its duties and responsibilities to the Movement and the workers generally.

Given harmony and understanding, the Government and the Trade Union Movement can advance Guyana “on to economic freedom in a great economy”.

CONCEPT OF DEMOCRACY

Since common terms such as “democracy” are given distorted meanings,

it is important to define the meaning. The basic principles of democracy within the meaning of the term as use expressed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. More than any other, the concept of human dignity is a “Golden Thread” that runs through all aspects of human rights. The preamble to the Universal Declaration of Rights states: Whereas recognition of the inhabitant dignity and equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice, and peace in the world.

The concept of human dignity asserts that on a simple basis of “dignity and worth of the human person”, and for no other reason, each person is entitled to certain minimum standards of living conditions essential for maintaining self-respect and the dignity inherent in being human. These rights and standards must be applied regardless of intelligence, skill, wealth background, race, religion, sex, creed, or political opinion.

The question of freedom of expression which in some cases is aggravated by a serious problem of illiteracy. Democracy can hardly function properly in an illiterate society.

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WORKERS DAY ALL OVER THE WORLD!

Flashback: Scenes from Labour Day 2023

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, poses with some of the contingents from Sunday’s walk, including his own, Ministry of Labour

Curtailing workplace accidents…

‘We

need to act now’

- Minister Hamilton tells all stakeholders; emphasises the importance of decisive action to safeguard the well-being of workers

GUYANA has made strides in reducing the number of workplace fatalities, recording a 37 per cent decline in the last four years. However, 2024 has been challenging, as more deaths have been recorded when compared to each of the previous three years.

In 2020, there were 32 workplace deaths; in 2021, the number deceased to 27 deaths and then in 2022, there were 21 deaths and 20 were recorded in 2023.

Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton, in his message on Occupational Safety and Health Day 2024, stated that the majority of fatalities occur in the mining and construction sectors.

“This situation causes me great concern, and should be the same for our tripartite partners

and key stakeholders. Indeed it is quite obvious that we need to act now. Decisive actions need to be taken to prevent workplace accidents and safeguarding well-being of the workers in this beloved country of ours,” Minister Hamilton stated.

This, he said, will require concerted efforts from the government, trade unions and employers’ organisations who need to collaborate closely to develop, implement and maintain comprehensive strategies for safety and health protocols, adequate training, the enforcement of safety and health regulations, proper equipment maintenance and fostering culture of safety among all stakeholders.

“Let us rise to the challenges and expand

Flashback: Scenes from Labour Day 2023

Adrian Narine and Shaniece Bamfield captured these shots on Labour Day last year. Hundreds took to the streets for the annual parade and then subsequently heard addresses from their union leaders and other officials

We need to act...

our efforts to create safer and healthier workplaces for all. Together we can make a difference and build a future where every worker can go to work and return home safely at the end of the work day or work period,” Minister Hamilton stated.

The Theme for this year’s observance is “Ensuring safe and healthy work now in a changing climate: We are running out of time.”

Minister Hamilton said

this year’s theme places emphasis, on the urgency of the situation, and the urgent need to prioritise safety and health in workplaces.

“Climate Change is already having serious impacts on the world of work, and workers particularly at risk are those who work outdoors in physically demanding sectors such as agriculture, construction and mining,” he stated. However, indoor

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We need to act...

workers in hot and poorly ventilated environments, and other workers are also at risk.

The minister said action needs to be taken now as the consequences of workplace fatalities are profound, resulting not only in the loss of precious lives, but leaving behind devastated families and communities while also disrupting productivity and progress.

Meanwhile, hundreds of persons turned out on Sunday Morning to join the Annual Occupation Safety and Health Day Walk.

Minister Hamilton, while addressing the participants, noted that the large turnout indicates that the drive for Occupational Safety and Health is gaining momentum.

World Day of Occupation Safety and Health was designated by the International Labour Organisation to place emphasis on the prevention of accidents and diseases at work.

It also seeks to raise awareness and promote action towards preventing workplace accidents and promoting well-being. Occupational Safety and Health Month was launched on April 3, 2024.

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