GTUC calls on gov’t to continue enforcing laws to protect workers

Georgetown: The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) says it is encouraged by the performance of Labour Minister Simona Broomes, who has consistently added her political weight in having the Labour Laws respected by recalcitrant employers.
The Union in a public missive are as follow: “Initially, while the GTUC was hesitant about this minister’s appointment, given her newness to Labour, her assertive manner in embracing and executing the task thus far, without fear, favour or ill will is encouraging. It also sends a signal to workers and employers that this administration is prepared to deliver to the working class people relief measures from years of public abuse, mismanagement and violations executed/practiced by the previous government to deny and dis-empower them. The Labour Department today is beginning to regain the confidence of the workers and trade unions. GTUC is further encouraged that this new administration has ensured over $16 million owed to workers were paid by recalcitrant employers under ministerial and departmental oversight. It is also noteworthy that several employers are either convicted or before the court for labour transgressions. The recent visit to Regent Street by the Labour Department, supported with the political muscles is seen as a step in the right direction. The commercial sector, primarily Regent Street is known to be engaged in acts contrary to Labour Laws and ILO Core Labour Standards which are demoralising to the labour force and carry consequences for this country’s image within the international community. The minister’s hands-on approach will run contrary to those who want to continue the lawlessness in society. She is a minster for the season and no doubt big businesses will use whatever clout they have to come down on her and it is hoped the administration demonstrates its commitment to workers and change, by standing solidly behind her. GTUC would like to see coordinated approaches with other ministerial efforts, Labour Department and National Insurance Scheme (NIS) to ensure compliance with the laws, in order to protect and ensure the longevity of the Scheme and pensioners/workers’ social security benefits. At the same time GTUC calls on Minister of Social Protection Volda Lawrence to further the advancement and deepening the thrust of ministerial outreach in the Labour environment by appointing the Trade Union Recognition and Certification Board (TURB). The TURB is legally required to give recognition and protection to trade union and workers. Its absence creates an unstable industrial climate given that workers’ well-being guaranteed in Article 147 of the Guyana Constitution and Trade Union Recognition Act is immobilised. GTUC, while encouraged by the recent work of the Labour Department expects the Government to appoint the arbitration tribunal to deal with the six-year impasse between the Guyana Bauxite and General Workers Union (GB&GWU) and the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporation (BCGI). This non-resolution of this impasse not only constitutes disrespect for the laws and transgression of workers’ rights, but also epitomises justice delayed is justice denied. This administration has inherited the impasse and the responsibility is theirs to act in accordance with the laws, failing which it continues the violation of the previous regime. The society voted for change and the aggrieved workers have been waiting for justice to be served. GTUC calls on the government to continue to enforce the Laws of Guyana which guarantee protection of the fundamental freedoms and rights of every citizen.