Issue #4 Volume #40
Combat Voice of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU)
Editorial
Undermining of democracy
The nation’s attention, in recent weeks, has been captured by unfolding and sometimes fast-paced developments. As is now common knowledge, our country’s principal judicial institution – the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) – disagreed with the contentions advanced by the Government on the No Confidence motion as well as the unilateral appointment of Justice (Retired) James Patterson as Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). The Court found, in both instances, that the relevant provisions of the Constitution of Guyana were breached, and therefore ordered, naturally, that there be full compliance with the nation’s supreme law. While there were professions by the Administration, including by no less a person than President David Granger, that the Court’s decision and subsequent orders would be abided by, it appears, so far, that the expressions really lack any meaningful action. While it is recognised that protracted dialogue did lead to a consensual Chairperson of GECOM, it should not be forgotten that the process was not without its own fair share of confusion. The demand by His Excellency that he must be involved in suggesting nominees for the GECOM Chairmanship, contradictory to both the Constitution and the CCJ ruling, it appeared to be yet another ruse aimed at procrastinating, and thus delaying the inevitable. Nevertheless and pleasingly, the issue was settled, and the new Chairman is now in place. At this time, however, it seems there isn’t any really concrete attempt to give effect to the consequences of the validly carried No Confidence Motion. While we have seen explanations and rationales being expressed that the courts did not order elections by a certain time, the CCJ, in its orders, was clear as day. The Court, while not specifically naming a date for National and Regional Elections, without ambiguity said that the relevant Constitutional articles were engaged. In fact, the Court opined that it expected the relevant actors to be faithful to the Constitution. Notwithstanding the clarity of the CCJ Ruling, we see attempts being made at every turn to disobey and to be unfaithful to the Constitution and the Court. It also appears that the constitutionally independent and insulated GECOM has not been fully cognizant of the Constitution, particularly in respect to the valid no confidence motion in which the Chief Justice ruled on the National Register of Registrants. It follows that the House-to-House registration was not carefully considered by the relevant GECOM authority. Continued on page two (2) COMBAT July/August, 2019
July/August, 2019
Second crop underway - 73,000 tonnes targeted - sugar growth forecast slashed
The Minister of Finance – through the 2019 MidYear Report, which considers the nation’s economic performance after the first half of the year – disclosed that the GuySuCo is aiming to produce 73,516 tonnes sugar during the crop. Through the report, the nation also learnt that the industry’s growth has been revised downwards. Initially, when the Minister presented the 2019 Budget in November last year, the sugar industry was expected to grow by over 15 per cent. However, just a few months later, the growth figure has been slashed significantly, with just a 2.3 per cent improvement being forecasted for 2019. What can only be described as a tremendous decline has seen several explanations proffered by the Minister. In the mid-year report, we saw the decline attributed to late commencement of the first crop as a result of extended out-of-crop maintenance and late delivery of spares and supplies. Looking ahead the Minister also disclosed that delays in procurement of important inputs such as fertilizers and spare parts will bedevil the industry for the remainder of 2019, with spillover effects expected into next year as well. The Minister’s disclosure is a mouthful, and indicates that all is not well regarding the management of the industry. While the report did indicate that cane yields have risen, it failed to correlate with the expected reduced production that is forecasted. It seems to indicate that cane quantity but not quality has improved. Both factors are important tenets for the industry to succeed. Undoubtedly, the industry’s turnaround and success are linked inextricably to the thousands of the industry’s workers who keep the wheels of production turning. It is disheartening and saddening to again point out that the workers continue to be treated in a clearly contemptuous manner, facing denial after denial. The workers, in the year 2019, are enjoying pay rates last adjusted in 2014, though cost-of-living expenses risen significantly since that time.
On the matter of production, information reaching the Union, indicated that production as at week ending August 24, 2019 stood at 3,408 tonnes sugar, 1,421 tonnes sugar behind the targeted production at the time. Production at the individual estates was as follows:Estate Albion Blairmont Uitvlugt Total
Expected Actual Production Production 3,745 2,495 1,084 743 0 170 4,829 3,408
Variance (1,250) (341) 170 (1,421)
Intriguingly and interestingly, the Union, through information coming to hand, recognized that the Corporation has targeted itself to production of 75,843 tonnes. The GuySuCo, from the information we saw, expects Albion Estate to produce 39,543 tonnes sugar; Blairmont Estate is expected to realize 23,284 tonnes sugar, whereas Uitvlugt Estate is expected to contribute 13,016 tonnes sugar. It appears that the Finance Minister was misinformed, or GuySuCo’s, numbers are a miscalculation. Whatever is the case, it is now symptomatic of the coined ‘new GuySuCo’ which ought to be, at this time, undergoing a revitalization with the proceeds of the $30B bond, but rather is now-a-days seemingly caught up in a war of words, among other things, as there are varying outlooks regarding the industry’s future. Of important note is that sugar in 2019, as it was all the time, remains simply “too big to fail”. Notwithstanding an ill-considered and completely haphazard miniaturization, the sugar industry remains an important source of employment and sustenance in rural Guyana. Tens of thousands of Guyanese eke out a livelihood through the industry’s multifaceted role in society. It is to the industry’s and country’s detriment that the relevant decision-makers seem not to appreciate this. PAGE ONE
Undermining of democracy Continued from page one (1) It cannot escape us that the democracy we today enjoy is one of the proud fruits of the workers movement. The call for universal adult suffrage – one man, one vote – emanated from the Movement, and was later embraced by the political parties and was won after the loud expressions of the workers. Later, workers played an active role in calling for a return to democratic practices after our nation’s democracy was hijacked. Those struggles led to several reforms including a credible voters list, counting of ballots cast at the place of poll, and an independent elections commission. Now, in 2019, one hundred years after
the establishment of the first workers organization, we see what portends to be a concerted effort to once again attack our nation’s fledging democratic culture. Such attempts are neither in our interest nor are helpful for future generations of Guyanese. At a time when we are on the cusp of further development, the undermining of our democratic foundation, built on the struggles of the past and present Guyanese working men and women, is not a matter that we can take lightly. Our voices must be heard, our expressions must be demonstrated, and our disagreement must be registered. It is our bounden duty to our people and to our country.
Minister Jordan’s admission indicates Government clueless about sugar industry The GAWU has seen and considered the statements of Minister of Finance Winston Jordan, expressed in the August 05 Stabroek News article titled “GuySuCo diversification delayed – Jordan”. The article, we gather, is the latest in the series of articles published by the newspaper arising from a wide-ranging interview with the Minister on a host of matters under his stewardship. Through the latest installment of the interview, our Union was gravely disappointed to learn that the planned diversification programme with respect to the estates under the stewardship of the GuySuCo has been delayed. From the news report, we gather that the Minister indicated that the initiative to construct co-generation plants has been shelved for the time being, as emphasis is placed on other areas. While we noted that the Minister did not specifically identify where the previously allocated co-generation monies would be spent, he did disclose, we saw, that the sums would be used to hasten the state-owned estates’ return to viability. While we welcome every and all workable and considered efforts to restore the industry to a viable and sustainable state, the Minister’s admission is yet another sad twist in the confused road the industry has been taking in recent times. The fact that NICIL-SPU will have to now approach bondholders to receive their proverbial ‘blessing’ to re-jig the utilization of the $30B bond only serves to confirm, yet again, that absent was any plan to properly utilize the large sum. It is the absence of such a plan, in our view, that was the source of the animosity that spilled over into the public arena between the NICIL-SPU and the GuySuCo. As may well be recalled, the GAWU, on several occasions, has reiterated that, from our point of view, there appeared to be no plan regarding the expenditure. COMBAT July/August, 2019
We should add that our concerted and consistent attempts to engage the Corporation on its plan were stonewalled, it seemed, at every turn. Now the admission that the bond proceeds have to be adjusted only serves to further confirm our suspicions. This latest episode is yet another indication that the powers that be are either clueless or unconcerned, or maybe both, as they address the sugar industry. It must not be forgotten that the industry, in spite of the reduced scale, is still the nation’s largest employer. It is also a significant source of sustenance in rural Guyana. This clear fact has been demonstrated by the vacuum created in the communities of the closed sugar estates. It is saddening to recognise the reality that more than one year has elapsed and millions of dollars, so far, have been paid to bondholders as interest and there is, apparently, no tangible utilization of the invested sums. This, for us, is not a matter of great comfort. What’s even more disheartening is that the latest admission comes just a mere week after no less a person than President David Granger himself had said he wanted the sugar industry to thrive. While the President is saying one thing, we see completely different actions coming from the other officials of the Granger Administration. Certainly and undoubtedly, it is hard to really give credence to what the Government is saying about the sugar industry any longer. Remember the now-a-day governmental leaders told the Guyanese electorate prior to their election to office, that “Sugar was too big to fail”. The reality is that they were less than truthful, as the industry was minimized and thousands lost their jobs. We cannot afford any further miniaturization, and a clearly workable plan is not an option but an imperative.
The oil facade
The unlocking of our nation’s oil resources – the latest on the list of our many natural blessings – has attracted a whirlwind of attention. Several media reports – apart from utterances by Governmental officials, among others – have pointed to the vast wealth that would accrue to our nation. While there is little doubt that previously unfathomable sums could well flow our way, the lopsided agreement with Exxon Mobil and its partners has undoubtedly significantly constricted the flow from the exploitation of resources that belong to our people. That notwithstanding, we continue to hear several pie-in-the-sky statements about the material wealth. Most recently, President David Granger announced that oil revenues would be utilized to provide free education from nursery to tertiary. It is a welcome announcement, as the provision of free tertiary education can unlock many doors, especially for our citizens coming from poorer sections of society. Apart from the President’s announcements, we have heard that oil revenues would be used in an effort to lower taxes. This, too, for our nation’s workers, would be a welcome respite, especially given the onerous nature of taxation in our present times. There has also been talk of utilizing oil revenues to improve and enhance infrastructure. This is a crying need in our country and could well spur investment and job creation. There is also talk of using oil revenues for the enhancement of agriculture. Certainly, given our nation’s agrarian base and vast potential, investments to improve efficiency and to move up the value chain are imperative especially sincd our nation has a vast land mass and the industry will still be with us even after oil is long gone. There are also commitments to specifically utilize oil income to revitalize the sugar industry. The industry, as the GAWU has repeatedly pointed out, has been dismayingly handled by the incumbent Administration, and as a result of bungling decision-making, finds itself in trying times. An injection of capital, whether from oil or elsewhere, used prudently, could well place the industry back on a sustainable footing. Apart from those commitments, calls on
oil monies will be made to improve salaries, enhance pensions, and improved community facilities. The quagmire in which the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) finds itself may also necessitate a call on oil revenues. More development will also lock us out from concessional international financing, and this will require larger sections of the budget being funded by indigenous resources. Then also there is a commitment to put aside certain sums of oil revenues for investment in the interest of future generations. When looking at the vast scope of demands on oil resources, one cannot help but think that billions upon billions of dollars will be flowing in our direction. However, this bubble of sorts was popped recently when the Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, in an interview with a section of the local media, disclosed that oil revenues in the first year will only tally to US$200M. This is about 25 per cent of what the gold industry currently rakes in, and is even less than what sugar, in its better days, brought to the table. Even Exxon’s country representative, in a media report, admitted that oil will not bring about overnight changes. In fact, the Finance Minister, in another section of the media, admitted that his boss’ commitment to free education needed to be, as he put it, “fleshed out”. It is important that we understand the reality, as against the airy-fairy picture that is being regularly and consistently painted now-a-days. With elections expected sooner than later, we will hear many of the promises, as well as more about what Government will do with oil monies in the interest of the Guyanese people. While oil revenues ought to be rightly spent in advancing the interest of our people and nation, the reality is that the pot is a lot smaller than is being touted, and therefore many of the whimsical promises will not be satisfied; at least not in the short-term. Certainly, prudent economic management can see the realization of some of the goals without oil. However, as the last four (4) years have shown us, there apparently isn’t a will, and maybe a commitment, to really address meaningfully the Guyanese people’s aspirations to go forward. PAGE TWO
Albion Estate workers protest for pay hike and against arbitrary changes to work conditions On August 08, the first scheduled day of harvesting of the canes of the second crop, workers of all the gangs of Albion Estate downed tools, severely affecting operations at the Estate. The workers are calling on the Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc. (GuySuCo) to address an increase in pay. It cannot be forgotten that sugar workers’ wages have been frozen since 2015. The naked discrimination against this hardworking group of the state’s employees, manifested through denials of pay increases and attacks on other long standing benefits and conditions, coupled with an ever rising tax burden among the other hardships of contemporary Guyanese life, have severely eroded the workers and their families’ purchasing power, and by extension, their standard of living. The workers also are peeved over the arbitrary hiking of the Estate’s weekly production targets. They contend that the increase in the Estate’s targets from 2,100 tonnes sugar to 2,140 would be disadvantageous, and will prevent the estate from realizing the target and thus affect incentives arising on the attainment of the target. The workers argue, quite correctly, that the inability to achieve target through the arbitrary increase could well daunt their commitment and belie the
notion of the incentive in the first place. Additionally, workers engaged in the mechanical loading of canes are upset regarding what they believe is an unnecessary change in their hours of work. The bell loaders’ operators, as they are known would usually work from 06:00h to 18:00h during the cropping period. However, the Corporation, without rhyme or reason, and in ignorance of the workers’ concerns, are requiring the workers in question to work from 10:00h to 22:00h. Another issue regards the workers engaged in the Mechanical Tillage tasks, who have rightly disagreed with the arbitrary downward adjustments of their pay rates pertaining to certain tasks.The Union is awaiting a meeting with the Industrial Relations Department of GuySuCo to address the matter. Indeed, the several matters and concerns, which it seems are not being sincerely considered by the GuySuCo, have deeply upset the workers. They charged that they continue to give of their best efforts, and seek at all times to go above and beyond, and yet it appears they are treated in the shabbiest of manners. This is not a healthy development, and we are hopeful that the Corporation will, with an open mind and listening ear, consider the workers’ cries.
Minister Jordan’s remarks an insult - FITUG The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) has considered the recent remarks of Minister of Finance Winston Jordan. The Minister, who according to media reports, was addressing a press conference hosted by the People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R), pointed out that he has recognised that foreign workers were undertaking tasks at lower rates of pay than Guyanese. By extension, the Minister, it appears, is advocating that Guyanese work for lower rates-of-pay in order to do the jobs being undertaken by foreigners. The remark made by one of the most senior Ministers is an incredulous statement, to begin with, and again is yet another manifestation of the Government’s disdain for the well-being of the Guyanese working class. It is saddening that the Minister, who is a trained economist, is advocating that his fellow country men and women must work for less pay in order to be employed. At a time, when the Minister’s Government, through its policies, has engineered the COMBAT July/August, 2019
retrenchment of thousands of Guyanese, and at a time where the working-people and their families are having a hard time to make their meagre ends meet, the Minister’s contentions can only be seen as a slap in the face of the Guyanese people. The Minister’s statement comes at the same time as the workers of Guyana celebrate one hundred years since the establishment of the Trade Union Movement in Guyana, a period characterized by improved working conditions and enhanced workers’ rights. Now, at this time, we see such an outrageous statement coming from one of our nation’s leaders. What is even more bothersome for us is that it seems the Minister is unaware that workers must work for certain rates of pay as set out by the National Minimum Wage. The enactment of such a policy was yet another means to prevent the exploitation of the Guyanese workers. Moreover, it goes against the very grain of the ILO Decent Work agenda,
Minister Ramjattan has reached new lows
The GAWU could not have failed to recognize the recent statements by Vice President and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, with respect to the sugar industry. An Inews report of August 26 informed that the Minister, during a meeting held in Corriverton, reportedly told his audience “…that the Government made the right decision to close the estates”. While it is now publicly acknowledged that the Minister is known for his outlandish statements, and has found his foot in his mouth on more than one occasion, his utterances this time around have even defied, in our view, even the low expectations that many had of him. While the Minister, seemingly preaching from his ivory tower, justifies unashamedly the decision to shutter estates and put thousands on the breadline, the communities and people linked to Skeldon, Rose Hall, East Demerara and Wales are going through miserable times and hardship-filled days and nights. Today, while the Minister and his colleagues make wishy-washy statements and provide sordid rationales, there are people in the precincts of the closed estates that find it hard to provide food, or to pay their bills, or to send their children to school. The public is well-aware of the situation wherein the people of Skeldon must pay NICIL to catch fish in the canals to feed their families. Then there is the more recent instance, wherein a child of a redundant sugar worker is unable to take up a which the Government of Guyana has undertaken to uphold and further. But the Minister’s expression undermines those commitments. Also, it demonstrates that the workers do not have allies in the Administration, and further exposes the ‘Good Life’ mantra as cheap propaganda. We of the FITUG are extremely upset
space at the illustrious Queen’s College as his parents simply cannot afford to meet the expenditure. The Minister went on to tell those he spoke to that “…the citizenry would become filthy rich in the near future with the booming oil sector coming on stream”. It seems the Minister is saying that we should place all our eggs in one basket. It is disheartening that an educated person, and more so a national leader, is making such outrageous statements. Time, experience and history have taught us that we never should place all our eggs in a singular basket. Moreover, recently, Minister Winston Jordan tempered expectations when he said that oil revenues in the early years will just be a few hundred million United States dollars, hardly sufficient to make us all “filthy rich”. Then at the same time we cannot ignore the many views expressed regarding the lopsided arrangements regarding oil exploitation that has been entered into. We really wonder whether the Minister’s feet were on the ground when he was speaking. Today, while the Minister goes on to justify the unjustifiable, it was not too long ago and not too far away from Corriverton, when then Mr Ramjattan told an APNU-AFC rally at Whim, during the 2015 elections campaign, that if elected, they “…will not in any way close the sugar industry…”. Indeed, it goes to show that you can no longer take anything at face value from Minister Ramjattan and his ilk. and equally disheartened by the Minister’s statement, which can only be seen as an insult to the hard working and decent minded Guyanese people. We hasten to remind that our achievements are the product of our people’s struggles over the years, and those gains we proudly celebrate and cherish in our day. Forward ever, backward never! PAGE THREE
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Venezuela and Iran in the crosshairs – who’s next?
By Peter Koenig Imagine just for a moment that the World would stand up in unison, sick and tired of the aggressive killer arrogance of the United States and her vassals and their joint war-force called NATO and this World – our World, what’s left of it when you deduct Washington and its Brussels allies – would at once block every shipment of everything destined for the ports of the United States of America: every sea port, airport and road port. Hermetically, Nothing would enter, nothing: no food, no medicine, no electronics, no cars, no nothing. And nothing could leave: no exports, no petrol, no grains, no meat, no pharmaceuticals and, foremost, no weapons. Nothing. And now take your mind a step further and imagine the same – exactly the same: a total and full blockage of Israel – nothing would enter, no food, no fuel, no medication, no machinery and especially no weapons – and nothing would leave; a full and total blockage. This would of course be totally illegal; illegal and unacceptable by any international law, by the standards of the UN Charter, by the Human Rights Laws and Directives – by any ethical values of human morals. Wouldn’t it? Yet, this is exactly what these countries are doing, have been doing for decades, sanctioning to strangle and murder entire populations into death or submission. The US with Cuba; Israel with Palestine. And the coercion and strangulation go on unabated. The longest embargo – illegal, inhuman and outright criminal – Washington imposed on Cuba – 60 years. Because Cuba has chosen socialism as her form of state and government. Cuba survived and will never give in to the tyrant of the north. Now the US is expanding her palette of killing by impunity to dominate and subjugate nation after nation which they do not consider bending sufficiently to the dictate of their masters. Venezuela has been targeted for two decades, ever since former President Hugo Chavez was democratically elected in 1998; and Iran, ever since the US-imposed Shah was deposed in 1979 – exactly 40 years ago – by Iran’s Islamic Revolution. Both Venezuela and Iran are rich in natural resources, especially hydroCOMBAT July/August, 2019
carbons but also in gold, rare earths and other precious metals and stones. Contrary to what one would like to imagine, international world bodies, like the United Nations and her sister and associated organizations remain just about silent. When a high-level official utters some benign criticism of the US or Israel – it flairs up for a moment in the ‘news’, then it disappears again, as if it never happened. And indeed, nothing happens. They – the US and Israel – go on with their crimes in impunity. The latest is an open declaration of economic warfare by Washington, a total embargo on Venezuela; the embargo is now being turned into a naval blockade. Similar steps are to be taken for Iran. That literally means that no merchandise – no matter how vital for survival, like food and medication, is allowed into Venezuela. Three days ago, the US seized, totally illegally, a cargo ship attempting to deliver food and medication to Venezuela – in the Panama Canal, territory which the US does not own or control anymore. Venezuela – US Attack Imminent? The ship was carrying soy cakes, from which Venezuela was to produce food. Never mind, that the cargoes are fully paid for by Venezuela. And this seems to be just the beginning. Vessels leaving Venezuela with petrol deliveries to client countries are also targeted for blockage, thus confiscating, or rather stealing, Venezuela’s main source of income on which she intends to survive and feed and provide health care for her people. This, in addition to the more than 130 billion dollars total Venezuelan assets confiscated – stolen – by the US worldwide. And nobody says beep. Almost. Yes, there are some collective protests by countries in solidarity – like key members of the Sao Paulo Forum, as well as more than 60 members of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM – total 120 members) that have become especially active in recent years in defense of Venezuela within the United Nations. Protests and protest declarations also take place by ALBA members, a Latin American trade alliance (ALBA – Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America, 11 members [Venezuela, Cuba, Bolivia,
Nicaragua, Dominica, Ecuador, Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Lucia, Grenada and the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis]). But most interesting are the hypocrites, those who write and scream that Venezuelans are starving to death, that the Maduro government neglects its people – yet these accusers-in-falsehood – let the US and her vassals strangle Venezuela and steal her foreign assets, including foreign reserves and gold, food and medical imports – they are saying zilch, nada, nothing. Just watching. To top it all off, the Human Rights Commissioner, Madame Michelle Bachelet, who recently visited Venezuela, at the invitation of President Nicolas Maduro, on a Human Rights mission, and who delivered a devastating report about Venezuela’s HR, full of lies, half-truths and outright omissions, not mentioning with one word the US inspired coup attempts, the US-funded opposition and its bloody atrocities perpetrated on the Chavista population, and the strangulating and starving by the US and US-dictated European sanctions – Madame Bachelet now came forward condemning the naval blockade. Great. But she did not stand up against the deadly embargo by the US and the European Union. If we are not careful, they are soon going to rule the globe. Thanks god, for Russia and China – which are also subjects of US-EU sanctioning and targeted for take-over. But they are a tiny little bit too big and too strong for this sort of games by the decaying US empire and her obedient rats on the sinking ship. Similarly, the European Union – despots as they have been for hundreds of years as colonialists in Africa, Asia and Latin America – and continue in a modern colonial role through economic control of much of Africa – this very EU, has been sanctioning Venezuela for years on the orders of Washington, naturally, who else? – Now they condemn the naval blockade, but continue their routine sanctions regime. According to a study carried out by the Washington DC based Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR), under guidance of Mark Weisbrot, CEPR co-director and Jeffrey Sachs, economics professor, Director, Center for Sustainable Development, Columbia University, New York, US and EU sanctions have cost some 40,000 Venezuelan lives. This mainly since August 2017, when Washington escalated its unilateral coercive measures against Venezuela and her state oil company, PDVSA, cutting them off international financial markets. Yes, the world would have plenty of reasons to stand up and dish out similar naval and air blockades against the US and Israel. Just as a teaser to begin with, and if that doesn’t send a strong enough wake-up message, perhaps such embargoes should be considered on a longer-term indefinite scale. It’s illegal. But we are living in a world where international laws don’t count – where laws are made, as we go, by the self-declared hegemon, the US of A, and her symbiotic Middle East ally, Israel. – So, why not nudging the legal, moral and ethical order back into balance? PAGE FOUR
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Amazon wildfires expose fallacy of “green” capitalist politics
By Miguel Andrade While much of the world has been gripped by the accelerating surge of deforestation and wildfires in the Amazon rainforest and its implications for the global environment, the Brazilian and international ruling classes have sought to exploit the fires to gain advantage in the geopolitical and trade disputes that divide them. The wildfires in both the Amazon—covering roughly a third of South America and stretching across all of its countries except for Chile, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay—and in the contiguous Pantanal wetland ecosystem in Paraguay and Bolívia surged in August. Simultaneous states of emergency and alerts were declared across several regions in both Peru and Brazil, while ashes descended over large areas of southern Brazil. Combined with a cold front coming from the south, the ashes blotted out the sun in the southeast of the country. The August fires are the culmination of a protracted attack on Brazilian environmental and labour regulations. This process accelerated after the world economic crisis hit Brazil’s economy with full force from 2013 on, causing landowners to employ more destructive methods in order to lower production and labor costs, particularly by clearing new swaths of land at the edge of the rainforest or along the roads and waterways that run through it. Deforestation was up by no less than 278 percent in July over the same period in 2018, while wildfires in the country were up 84 percent over last year. May through September is the dry season throughout the center of South America, and is also the time for seasonal agricultural burn-offs for both peasants and plantations. Amazon deforestation, however, is not merely an incremental phenomenon: having lost 17 percent of its original extension, the forest is predicted to collapse if this loss reaches 25 percent, at which point irreversible damage would result in its desertification and transformation into a savannah. The Amazon forest is a huge carbon dioxide sink, with experts estimating that its biomass holds the equivalent of a hundred years of current levels of US carbon emissions. A prominent role in the increased fires is certainly played by global warming, which is lengthening the dry season. Its most immediate trigger, however, has been the concerted campaign by both Brazil’s far-right President Jair Bolsonaro and Amazonian state governors in pushing through deregulation and turning a blind eye to the destruction of the forest. Bolsonaro has staffed his cabinet with climate change COMBAT July/August, 2019
deniers who consider climate science a “Marxist conspiracy” and have repeatedly attacked governmental agencies charged with defense of the environment. For their part, local governments have defunded the work of—and security exposing them to the violent retaliation of private mercenary armies working for big landowners, effectively blocking the enforcement of anti-deforestation laws. The news of the accelerated destruction of the Amazon has provoked justifiable anger and revulsion in Brazil and around the world under conditions of increasing hostility to the inaction of world governments over global warming. Large demonstrations have been held in major Brazilian cities as well as across Europe and internationally. Popular anger has been intensified by Bolsonaro’s scapegoating of the oppressed indigenous populations for the social problems plaguing the region, under conditions in which there are regular reports of environmental activists and peasant leaders being murdered by the private mercenary armies now torching the forest. However, the debate over the Amazon situation has also exposed the grave dangers for workers and youth around the world stemming from the attempt to corral the fight against global warming behind a renewed push for a “green” rehabilitation of capitalism. For months, the Bolsonaro administration had been sparring with the governments of Germany and Norway, which were major donors for the so-called “Amazon Fund” set up under the government of Workers Party (PT) president Lula da Silva in 2008. The Fund was
created to help in reducing deforestation and fires, but in May, Bolsonaro disbanded its board of oversight by decree, partly in retaliation against the NGOs that constituted part of it. Both countries then announced the suspension of funding. Finally, on August 22 a tweet by French President Emmanuel Macron, declaring he would propose an “international discussion” on the Amazon at the G-7 meeting over the weekend, provoked a furious reaction from the Bolsonaro government. Bolsonaro, himself, criticized Macron for acting with a “colonial mindset with no place in the 21st century.” The Brazilian government refused to accept the paltry $20 million offered by the G7 countries to help fight the fires. Macron’s main worry is not the destruction of the Amazon, but rather making his own nationalist appeal to French farmers opposed to the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement that is being voted upon by the parliaments of both bloc’s countries. The French president threatened to veto the deal unless Brazil takes more decisive action to protect the Amazon. In the long term, imperialist powers have definite strategic interests in relation to the Amazon, which contains 20 percent of the world’s fresh water as well as some of the world’s largest rare earths reserves and is the site of a veritable “gold rush” for intellectual property over compounds that may be extracted from the rainforest’s 3 million species. With its industry standing to benefit from the free trade pact, Germany expressed reservations over Macron’s rhetoric, while other EU countries highly dependent on agriculture, such as Ireland, vocally sided with Macron. Most of the EU governments, however, declined to take an aggressive tone, fearing the agreement could be put in danger, together with the profits expected from the general lowering of wages that will follow the imposition of savage competition imposed upon the workers of both continents with the approval of the deal. A progressive answer to the immense dangers caused by the burning of the Amazon rainforest is impossible under a system founded upon brutal exploitation and massive social inequality defended by Bolsonaro and Macron alike. It can come only out of the struggle of the working class and the abolition of the profit system.
Immauel Wallerstein: in memoriam By Boaventura de Sousa Santos Immanuel Wallerstein was unquestionably the most remarkable American sociologist of the twentieth century. He inspired successive generations of sociologists to focus on the world system. Wallerstein believed that the increasing dependencies and interdependencies within the world system turned it into an unit of analysis capable of generating better working hypotheses for the study of the national societies themselves. Such an analytical break was largely misunderstood in the USA. He consorted with almost all the leaders of the liberation movements against colonialism before and after the independences, and set up projects with social scientists of those coun-
tries to help build new scientific communities. His relations with the Center for Social Studies (CES), of the School of Economics of the University of Coimbra, were wide and far reaching. During one of Wallerstein’s visits to CES we amply discussed the relevance of the concept of semiperiphery to characterize countries like Portugal. We realized that Portugal, like other countries in Europe, had features that distinguished them from other countries in other continents. Herein started our work to reformulate the theory of the semiperiphery in order to adapt it to our reality. The outcome was one of the most fruitful ways of analyzing Portuguese society. That is why we proposed that University of Coimbra take the honor of granting Immanuel Wallerstein an Honorary Degree in 2006. The best way to honor Immanuel Wallerstein’s memory is to carry on with our work bearing in mind the enthusiasm, the professionalism, and the brilliant manner in which he managed to combine scientific objectivity and commitment to the damned of the earth – a stance he never failed to impress on us. PAGE FIVE
Guyanese working-class struggling to keep their heads above water
Continued from last edition Sugar Industry Comrades, the treatment of the thousands of Guyanese still linked to the sugar industry cannot escape our attention on this Labour Day. The workers have received the shabbiest of treatments, as they remain the only group in the State sector to have not gotten any improvement in pay since 2015. It is baffling to understand why the sugar workers are being treated with such disdain, and it appears that this is plain eye-pass and blatant discrimination.
At this time too, dishearteningly, many of the 7,000 Guyanese who lost their jobs arising from the industry’s minimization remain hardpressed. It was interesting for us that the Minister of Finance, in his 2019 Budget address, said the sugar sector “…has huge potential for growth, being pivotal to increasing household incomes, reducing unemployment, and ultimately lowering the poverty rate”. So, if this is really the case, we ask:- why did the Government close the estates and create thousands of new poor? Clearly, this further serves to demonstrate the callousness of the decision to minimize the industry. Comrades, we see, too, the apparent confusion surrounding the sugar industry, which could very well derail efforts to improve the viability of the remaining GuySuCo estates. We once again repeat: there is an urgent need for a workable plan involving the workers and their organizations which will strengthen any and all efforts to attain the desired goals. We want the industry to succeed, as a large number of Guyanese depend on its operations. We have seen the ramifications of the vacuum created by the closure of estates. We hasten to point out that there is no singular magic bullet, but hard work, commitment, knowledgable personnel and, of course, a motivated workforce are critical
GAWU awards bursaries
The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) has continued to provide bursary awards to children of its members. Over the past years, the union has been awarding the best performing children of GAWU’s members in the National Grade Six Examinations. Two separate activities were held at the union’s offices in Georgetown and Berbice on August 22, 2019, and 24, 2019, respectively whereby the monetary awards to the successful students in the presence of their parents would be handed out. In his message to the students at the Demerara ceremony in Georgetown, the President of GAWU, Cde Komal Chand, congratulated the students on their achievements while recognizing the role of their respective teachers. He also congratulated their parents, whose support and encouragement he stressed must COMBAT
July/August, 2019
have greatly assisted the students. He advised the students, noting the importance of education, to continue to acquire higher learning as they enter secondary school in the new school term in September. He also told the students that GAWU is pleased and proud to award the bursaries, as the Union recognizes their success at the National Grade Six examinations and wishes to encourage them to continue to diligently pursue their studies for greater attainments. Cde Harvey Tambron, Vice President of GAWU, spoke at the Berbice Award Ceremony and expressed similar sentiments. Altogether, twenty (20) bursaries have been approved, of which three (3) are provided by the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union Co-operative Credit Union Society Limited.
elements in overcoming the difficulties. International Situation Comrades, Labour Day is a day when we raise high the banner of solidarity of the international working-class. The working-class of the world have written, selflessly, glorious and inspiring chapters of struggles that impacted positively on our lives and influenced profound socio-economic change in their respective societies. In our day, we are witnessing new challenges levelled at those who historically thrived on wars, conflicts, oppression and exploitation. These ruling forces are unable to suppress the reinvigorated struggles erupting on all continents seeking World Peace, deepening of democracy, an end to poverty, respect for countries’ sovereignty, and consistent and focused efforts to address climate change, which is reaching a critical level. We express, from this platform, our sincerest solidarity to all peoples who are engaged in this fight today for these causes. Conclusion Comrades, on this Labour Day 2019, let us recognize that we need to be more assertive in demanding our rights, and insist that we be involved in the decision-making processes that impact our lives. Today’s conditions do not call for complacency, but for greater activism and for united and principled actions. We extend May Day greetings to all of you present here today, and indeed to all working-people, all citizens of Guyana!
GAWU bargaining agent on behalf of SEI employees
The GAWU has recently been certified by the Trade Union Recognition and Certification Board (TURCB) as the sole bargaining agent on behalf of the employees of Skeldon Energy Inc (SEI). Our Union, earlier this year, sought bargaining rights on behalf of the workers who are engaged in the fossil-fuel and steam power plants operated by the Company at the now-closed Skeldon Estate. SEI is jointly owned by the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) and the Guyana Power and Light Limited (GPL) and operates the power plant which is attached to Skeldon Estate. The plant exports, at this time, 10 megawatts of electricity to the national grid. Previously, the plant was owned and operated by the GuySuCo, however, just four (4) years ago the Corporation took a decision to divest the plant resulting in SEI coming into being.
Currently, they are 63 workers employed by the Company who are engaged in various tasks in the plant’s operation. Our Union has written the Company seeking an engagement and has forwarded as well as a draft Recogniton and Avoidance and Settlement of Disputes Agreement. The draft set about the framework for the Union/Company relations and speaks to, among other things, the appointment of shop stewards, and outline of the grievance procedure. Following the appending of the Recognition Agreement, the Union seek to commence discussions on a Collective Labour Agreement which would address conditions-of-work including matters of pay levels, allowances, and personal protective equipment (PPE) While the Company has yet to respond to our request to meet, we are hopeful that the SEI will soon engage us.
GAWU GS appointed to UN committee GAWU’s General Secretary, Cde Seepaul Narine has been appointed as a member of the United Nations Committee of World Food Security (CFS) for the period 2019 to 2021. The CFS was established by the UN in 1974 as
an intergovernmental body to serve as a forum in the UN for review and follow-up of policies concerning world food security issues including production and physical and economic access to food. PAGE SIX
GAWU asks:-
Why must sugar workers must support a plan they know nothing about?
The GAWU saw the comments of GuySuCo’s Corporate Communications Manager Ms Audreyanna Thomas which appeared in the August 10, Stabroek News regarding the recent strike action by workers of Albion Estate. Ms Thomas points out that discussion regarding pay rise for 2018 was deadlocked and the Company was not in receipt of the Union’s demands regarding 2019. What wasn’t said, maybe out of ignorance, was that the conciliatory discussions at the level of the Ministry of Social Protection became deadlocked mere days ago. Certainly, it would have been imprudent and illogical for the Union to submit its proposals for this year without concluding discussions on 2018 as, obviously, one affects the other. Nevertheless, the GAWU is working, at this time, to submit its claims in the shortest time. Moreover, it does not negate the reality that sugar workers are enjoying rates-ofpay that were last adjusted in 2014. In fact, during our engagements with the Corporation at the bilateral and conciliatory levels, the GAWU hastened to point out that the freezing of wages, apart from other attacks on workers’ conditions-of-work, has seen between 2014 and 2017 workers taking home 30 per cent less in their pay. When inflation is taken into account, a further 6 per cent in wages has been lost by workers. Our Union noted that those developments came at a time when prices for certain food items have gone up in excess of 50 per cent and the cost of medicines, for instance, has also steeply risen. In spite of those daunting realities, sugar workers continued to work dedicatedly and saw the Corporation not only meeting its production targets, but exceed them as well. Yet, for those feats and efforts the workers are treated disdainfully and were given a paltry bonus which equated to about less than $1,500 per month. Also, the GuySuCo spokesperson didn’t say, for obvious reasons, that there is support among certain forces to approve a pay rise to workers yet, nevertheless, the workers continue to experience denial after denial. We have told the GuySuCo that it cannot turn a blind eye to the reality that their workers’ dollars are buying less and less, and they will soon be placed firmly with their backs against the wall, if they are not there already. Certainly, this situation for the workers is upsetting, especially when they go home and come to the realisation that they cannot meet, at times, even the basic demands of life. Ms Thomas also told the Stabroek News COMBAT July/August, 2019
that “[l]ast year, for the second crop, the workers achieved 2,200 tonnes per week”. Our records advise us that of the twenty (20) grinding weeks during the 2018 second crop, on three (3) occasions the production of 2,200 tonnes was surpassed. During the recently concluded first crop, at no time 2,200 tonnes sugar was realized in any one week. This represented an increase in weekly targeted production which was imposed by GuySuCo. In such an event, one would have expected that the Corporation would have engaged the workers and the Union regarding its plans to increase the weekly target. Certainly, such an engagement would have helped the workers and the Union to better understand the rationale behind the increase in the target. Rather, the increase in the target was just shoved down without any explanation to the workers. Regarding the changes to the working hours of the bell loader operators, Ms Thomas tells us that the change to begin the shift from 10:00h instead of 06:00h was a proposal, and now a start of 08:00h has been settled. Certainly, had it not been for the workers’ expressions, the 10:00h imposition would have remained, in stark contrast with the workers’ rationales and contentions. Touching on the adjustments to the mechanical tillage, Ms Thomas contends the Corporation is merely abiding with the Collective Labour Agreement; however, there is more than meets the eye here, and we look to engage the Corporation at the soonest. Separately, the Corporation in a statement shared that it undertook works towards improving the estate’s operations. The GAWU, while happy to hear about this development, has noted that the works were in keeping with the company’s new Strategic Plan. Again, the GAWU must lament and point out that, so far, the Union has not been formally apprised about the plan. We did share recently that we have made several attempts over the last year to seek to meet the Company to become au fait with its plans. Our sincere attempts to become more knowledgeable of the Corporation’s plans, dishearteningly, have been rebuffed. Even our most recent correspondence to the Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer on the subject remains unacknowledged. We noted the Corporation, through its statement, appealed “…to all of its employees to continue to support… the implementation of its Strategic Plan…”. Dismayingly, while the workers’ support is requested, the GuySuCo, thus far, is yet to engage the workers’ representatives on
the plan which it seeks support for. This is akin to placing the horse before the cart. The GAWU also could not help but notice the Corporation’s statement referring to the “…estate producing value-added production, such as, white sugar and co-generation…”. This is in stark contrast with what the Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, who told the Stabroek News recently that co-generation has been shelved for the time being. We wonder who is right? The GAWU will continue to remain
supportive of the sugar workers who are standing up in principle to defend their hard won conditions and to demand that they be treated with respect and dignity. They simply seek to be treated, like all workers, with decency and dignity. The seeming vestiges of massa day belong to the relics of the past. At this time, we urge the Corporation to keep abreast with the enlightened times and be more respectful to the first concerns and interest of its workers.
The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), the sole bargaining agent of the workers at the Guyana Forestry Commission met with Minister of Natural Resources,Raphael Trotman, along with the Board of Directors and Management of the Guyana Forestry Commission on August 05, 2019 to discuss the Commission’s current financial situation. The GAWU was represented by its General Secretary, Seepaul Narine; Organising Officer Porandatt Narine, and GFC GAWU Branch Secretary Hewley Clarke. During the meeting, the GAWU, among other things, drew the Minister’s attention to the regular delays in the payment of salaries and other benefits. The Union pointed out that salary is personal property and the management had no right to delay such payments beyond the stipulated pay day. We also pointed out that, in recent times, the Commission has been charged with additional responsibilities. Notwithstanding the new tasks, the GAWU observed, that the GFC was not receiving any additional resources to meet its new obligations. With regards to one such obligation, the Union referred to a large number of employees employed by the Commission who are engaged in tasks reportedly unrelated to the Commission. On that score, we urged that given the roles of the Commission in protecting a significant natural resource of our people, the State, we felt, was obligated to provide appropriate support to ensure that the
Commission effectively discharges its expanded mandate. The GAWU also shared concern regarding the six hundred million dollars ($600M) invested in the High Street (former Radio Station) property as well as other debts, some of which are owed for protracted periods to the Commission. The Union pointed out to Minister Trotman that the Forestry Act stipulates any shortfall in the Commission’s expenditure be charged to the Consolidated Fund. The Minister expressed appreciation to the Union and thanked the GAWU for its presentation. The Natural Resources Minister committed that he would take the matter to Cabinet on August 06, 2019 with a view to seek a subvention for the Commission as an immediate relief. He also informed that he would advise the Government to divest the High Street property and repay the GFC its investment. The Minister also committed to further engagements with the Union. The meeting, we felt, was cordial and the workers’ representatives of the Union’s delegation were satisfied that the Minister has listened to their woes and has a better understanding of the situation at hand. In the coming days, we look to the Minister following through with his commitments with a view to ending the sad situation that has descended on the Commission and which has significantly hit the hard-working employees of the GFC.
GAWU engages Natural Resources Minister about situation at GFC
PAGE SEVEN
GAWU observes a Century of Trade Unionism The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) concluded successfully a Conference titled “A Century of Trade Unionism – 100 years of workers’ struggles and achievement” on July 17 at the Grand Coastal Hotel. The activity attracted a large number of attendees from all walks of life, and included trade unionists, members of parliament, members of the Diplomatic Corps, workers, among others. The one-day activity sought to consider the advancements recorded by the working-class since the Trade Union Movement appeared on the scene now a hundred years ago. The GAWU, through its General Secretary Seepaul Narine, reminded those present of the origins of the Movement, which emerged in a time of grave difficulties and hardships for the workers in the then British Guiana. The GAWU General Secretary reminded that, in the last century, workers’ rights have improved and today many rights have now been won. In considering the present-day realities, Narine pointed out that there are still several issues which require attention. He also took stock of the current political situation and urged that our leaders work together in observance of the recent CCJ ruling. He urged unions and workers to take inspiration from the courage of Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow as we move forward. General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), Lincoln Lewis, also traced the development of the movement, and pointed to the many struggles pursued and the several victories scored. He shared, too, that the political movement also has its roots in the working-class movement. Lewis noted that the benefits and rights workers enjoy now-a-days were not granted willingly, but were won out of the struggles of the workers past and present. He stressed the need for the unity of the working-class as he pointed out that the Movement has played a pivotal role in welding the nation and advancing its development. Lewis urged all Guyanese to rise above race, and stressed the need for the education of the working-class. The GTUC General Secretary pointed to the need for all citizens to benefit from the nation’s national wealth to ensure that there is equitable development for all Guyanese. President of the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), Carvil Duncan, in his presentation, spoke of the several successes Critchlow scored in his early years. He also spoke of Critchlow’s assistance in helping other unions to become founded as he recognised the need for workers organizations in upholding and defending workers’ rights. Duncan also called on the Government to rightly recognize Critchlow as a national hero in recognition of his many contributions to the nation. The FITUG President also urged the need for more workers to join unions, especially
in view of the exploitative practices workers face these days. He stressed that the Movement, while justly proud of its achievements, notes that there is still work to be done. Duncan urged workers and unions to move forward together in winning their just demands. Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, Keith Scott, who represented the Government of Guyana, congratulated the Trade Union Movement on its centennial anniversary. The Minister recognised that the period leading up to the formation of the first workers organization in 1919 was an eventful period in history. He noted that between 1905 and 1919, there was rising workers consciousness in society, and this led to workers becoming more vocal about demanding fair treatment and just rewards. Minister Scott said that in that time, workers’ struggles became more commonplace and fuelled reforms of the then extant systems, which were chracterised by harshness and exploitative policies. He also deemed Hubert Critchlow as the greatest Trade Unionist produced in Guyana’s history, as he
charted a path that has been furthered and enhanced by subsequent generations of unionists. Critchlow, the Minister said, understood the necessity of the marriage between trade unions and politics as a means to advance the workers’ cause. He shared that Critchlow, as a member of the Legislative Council, played a decisive role in legislation on a number of workers’ concerns. The Minister said that our nation and its people owe an immense debt to Critchlow, as he has left an indelible print on our labour system in our country. Minister Scott urged those present not to forget our history, which is filled with rich-struggles and the yeoman sacrifices of workers. Those struggles, he said, left treasured lessons, many of which serve us well today. Bishop Juan Edghill, who represented the Leader of the Opposition, pointed out that the labour movement plays an important role, especially in a developing nation as Guyana. He said the movement plays an important role like regulating relations between workers and their employers, and thus enhancing rights and conditions-of-work. Bishop Edghill said that the labour movement needed to be fair and fearless, as he urged that they
give focused attention to improving the workers’ lot. He reminded that the Opposition, when in Government, had a proud track record in enhancing workers’ rights. Such developments, he opined, were not strange, but were in keeping with the PPP/C’s long-standing workers’ outlook. Bishop Edghill lamented that while we observe this notable anniversary, thousands of sugar workers were made jobless in recent times. Turning to oil and gas, he urged that there is need, too, for the movement to speak up more about the arrangement regarding exploitation and requirements for local content. The Opposition Leader’s Representative also noted that, at this time, there are open and naked threats to our democracy, and called on the movement to continue to raise its voice. He reminded that in the past the movement played a critical role in the upholding of democratic rule and respect for the rule of law. Director of the ILO Caribbean Office, Claudia Coenjaerts, congratulated the movement on the significant achievement. The Director pointed out that several changes to the labour relations environment are underway, which can pose several difficulties to workers. She said technological changes and climate change, among other things, will bring about several changes, and there is need for training to take account of the new realities. She pointed out that globally there are 190 million jobless persons, 65 million who are under 25 years. The Director shared that global inequality is sharpening, with the richest 1 per cent owning 57 per cent of global income. She stressed the need for work to be done in reducing the large gaps between the haves and the havenots that currently exist. Ms Coenjaerts pointed out that Governments will play a critical role in ensuring workers are protected, and the ILO will continue to play an active role in this regard. To this end, she committed the Organisation’s continued assistance in facilitating dialogue between the Labour Movement, the Government and the employers organisaton. The ILO, in this regard, will support activities in improving industrial relations; addressing poverty and inequality and formalizing informal labour relations, among other things within the concept of the Guyana Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP). The Conference also received a message of greetings from renowned Trade Unionist Ashton Chase, who congratulated the movement on its centennial anniversary. Chase, in his message, also shed further light on the advancement of the movement over the years. From all accounts, the Conference was successful and provided good basis for the forward movement in the time ahead. The Union believes that the Conference met its objectives, primarily to bring attention to the achievements of the Movement.
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