GAWU Combat - April/June 2022

Issue #2 Volume #43

Combat Voice of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU)

April-June, 2022

GuySuCo records worst 1st crop Real incomes performance in history Editorial

In the period between April 2021 and April 2022, the Guyana Bureau of Statistics recorded that prices within Georgetown rose by 7.5 percent. The Bureau further indicated that 2.8 percent of the growth was attributed to increases recorded in 2022. Looking at the composites of the inflation basket, food prices, the Bureau informed, had risen by 13.8% within the same period, (4.4 percent in 2022). The data informs that inflation is at its highest over the past five (5) years. In Guyana, similar levels of inflation were recorded during the 2008/09 period when a global food crisis had taken hold.

As in that period, the world economy is caught in the throes of yet another crisis. Globally. countries across the world are facing similar challenges occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, climate change, the monopolization/consolidation of shipping companies, among other things.

For the ordinary Guyanese workers and their families, the substantial jump in prices is most challenging. Engagements with workers have identified a marked increase in the cost of several important and necessary commodities. Workers have related the increases they are forced to pay are far more than officially reported data. We have learnt that the prices of some food items have seen increases of over 50 percent, even in instances of locally manufactured goods. For poorer families, they are essentially being priced out of the market.

The marked jump in prices comes as Guyana is recording its highest economic growth in history. Our country has the enviable statistic of leading the globe in economic expansion.

Yet, at the same time, our people are finding it more and more difficult to cope with life. It is certainly oxymoronic!

It is acknowledged, to a large extent, the escalating costof-living is occasioned by external events. In this case, we are an unwitting victim of a much larger global machination.

Even in the instance of locally produced goods, increases in the cost of inputs such as fertilizers, fuel, and other materials are fuelling increases. Recognition is also given the public policy responses to seek to alleviate cost-of-living burdens.

Applying duties and taxes on imports at pre-pandemic prices is costing the Government billions in lost revenues. Similarly, removal and/or reduction in taxes on several important items are also adding up to billions more. Despite the proactive response from officialdom, consumers are reeling from massive hikes in prices. Several suspicions have arisen as to whether these savings are really passed on to customers, or they are trapped within the profits of business owners.

Similar concerns were also shared by several officials of Government in recent times.

- urgent examination of industry required

The 2022 first crop production was the worst in the history of the Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc (GuySuCo) since its establishment in May 1976. This year, the industry struggled to produce 13.076 tonnes sugar during the crop from a lowly-set target of 20,261 tonnes. At the estates, sugar production was as follows: Estate

Target

Actual

Shortfall

Albion

9.078

7.488

1,590

Blairmont

6,888

5,521

1,367

Uitvlugt

4,295

66

4,229

Industry

20,261

13,076

7,185

At Uitvlugt Estate, a damaged gear at the mill turbine brought the crop to a premature conclusion, resulting in a paltry 66 tonnes sugar recorded. At Albion and Blairmont Estates, production went far in excess of their set production weeks, yet the estates did not attain their targets. It was later learnt that the estates harvested canes earmarked for the second crop 2022. Even this attempt was clearly unsuccessful, as production still fell below anticipated production.

Additionally, direct transfers to citizens have been pursued in some cases. This is intended to assist vulnerable, dispossessed and struggling groups within the society. This is laudable, and undoubtedly will assist. However, it is widely recognised that all strata of society are not spared the ravages of the economic storm that is presently raging. Calls are growing for a more pronounced response from the Administration. To this end, there has been the hiking of the National Minimum Wage to $60,000 monthly. This equates to a 36% rise in the minimum wage.

As anticipated, the workers and the weather – the usual scapegoats – were lined up to offer feeble and unconvincing justification for the poor performance. However, GuySuCo’s own data revealed the absurdity in the defense it sought to mount. At Albion, for instance, during the crop, there were 4 strikes aggregating to a loss of 499 mandays. This contrasts with 11 strikes in 2021 and 17 strikes in 2020 that resulted in 3,309 mandays and 6,636 mandays lost respectively. Clearly, the data does not support the GuySuCo management’s contention.

Continued on page two (2)

The sugar company management has bemoaned workers’ attendance to work. This, however, contradicts the reality that

nearly all workers are qualifying for crop benefits, which requires them to work certain number of days during the crop. Instructively, however, the Corporation, whether deliberately or not, has ignored the conditions in the fields. The absence of canes and the presence of more vines and grass are constraining workers’ earnings while requiring them to exert additional energies to harvest canes or undertake other field tasks. GuySuCo’s own data, again, confirms that field productivity is declining. The cane yields, over the last three 1st crops, clearly shows a sharp decline: Estate

2020

2021

2022

Albion

58.6

63.9

40.0

Blairmont

57.9

64.1

39.6

The Corporation has sought to justify the situation by blaming an absence of tillage. Indeed, tillage is an important element of operations, but it is not the only element. Even when tillage is accomplished, the results are dreadful. At Blairmont, for example, fields tilled and planted in 2021 and harvested during the recently concluded crop yielded 64.60 TCH. This is well below historical trends of at least 100 TCH for plant canes. The data speaks to wider agronomic issues and an apparent deviation from a scientific approach and long-standing practices. There are concerns in respect of the timely availability of resources for operation, which are key to growing good-quality canes.

Clearly, the current management of the industry needs to be examined. Some months ago, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo had alluded to the need to strengthen management. Not much was heard since, but this requires urgent attention, in our view.

It is obvious to us that the industry is deficiently managed, and we urge the Administration to act with alacrity to remove those incapable of performing their tasks, and to retain competent individuals who can guide the industry forward.

Page 2

Real incomes Continued from page one (1) But, almost ironically, the increase in food prices between the last improvement of the minimum wage in 2017 and now have been recorded at 35.9%, according to available data.

Thus, minimum wage workers have only really regained what they lost through inflation over the period. They have not received, from a food price perspective, any real wage increase.

It is apposite to note that the $60,000 minimum wage level was proposed since 2019. Recognizably, there have been many changes in that period.

The implementation of the new minimum wage came after sustained calls from the FITUG and its affiliates. The Chairman of the Private Section Commission, Mr Paul Cheong, in welcoming the improvement of the minimum wage, is quoted in a section of the media to have said, “I think this is a good thing, and it should be reviewed periodically based on what is going on with inflation, cost of living, and so on.” We share Mr Cheong’s views, and already the data has informed that

a further improvement is necessary is we wish to improve meaningfully our people’s standard-of-living.

Looking at it from another perspective, the 7% pay rise the Government provided to its employees last year has already lost more than half of its value on account of food price increases in this year. If the trend continues, as it likely will, all of the pay improvement and quite possibly more will be lost just through the increase in food prices alone. It appears almost regressive, though the economy is expanding at a lightning speed and is expected to continue in the next years. In-as-much as policies and programmes are being furthered to improve infrastructure, broaden our economic base, and strengthen traditional sectors while expanding the social sectors, there is also an urgent need to ensure that our people can live meaningful lives. Real incomes are steadily declining, and there is an urgent need to arrest the situation lest we exacerbate inequality within our society.

Combat - April-June, 2022

FITUG abhors violence along the East Coast Demerara

The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) joins with all right-thinking Guyanese and organizations in condemning the violence, looting and robbery which took place in several East Coast Demerara villages on June 28, 2022. As a responsi-

ble organisation, we uphold the right of all Guyanese to protest as a means of expression. We, however, hold that our expressions must always be peaceful, respectful and compliant with the laws and norms.

The FITUG urges a speedy conclu-

sion to investigation of the incident that led to the shooting of Mr Quindon Bacchus. On this score, we have recognised several statements and assurances in this regard. We, however, hold that calls for justice should not lead to injustices perpetrated against others.

The Federation also notes the threats levelled against His Excellency President Irfaan Ali. We also share our condemnation of such language as we are deeply disturbed.

At this time, the FITUG urges peace and calm, and that Guyanese be allowed to go about their activities without any obstruction and fear.

Blairmont cultivation in serious need of rehablitation

The state of the Blairmont Estate cultivation is one of deep concern and worry to workers of the estate.

Blairmont, which has long been regarded as among the Corporation’s most productive estates, has fallen into serious deterioration with vines, weed, and grass taking over many cane fields. The GAWU, in an April 12, 2022 letter to the GuySuCo CEO on behalf of the workers, shared its apprehensions as it urged a joint Union/ Management field visit. The Union, in advancing its position, considered the declining production at Blairmont and

the reduction in field productivity. As a stakeholder, the Union noted the implications for the future of the estate and the industry. Currently, Blairmont houses the industry’s lone packaging plant, and is the only ISO-certified estate. As a result, sugar produced at Blairmont attracts favourable prices.

Following reminders, the GuySuCo agreed to conduct the joint field visit.

Unfortunately, at the time, the heavy rainfall prevented visits to several identified areas. It exposed another serious challenge regarding accessibility to the estate’s cultivation. In

the areas visited, the joint team recognised the need for serious rehabilitative works to correct the situation.

Several waterways were clogged by weeds, and this would present additional challenges when the crop commences. In this regard, the Union team offered suggestions to the estate personnel.

The Blairmont management claims that the state of the estate it related to the absence of tillage in recent times.

It argued that as a result, older, less productive, canes were available for harvesting. At the same time, it ap-

pears that not sufficient care was taken of the cultivation. In justifying the situation, the estate alluded to an absence of herbicides and labour. However, the estate did not advise what alternatives it deployed to at least arrest the situation. The Union has learnt that some 30% of the cultivation has been temporarily abandoned on account of poor-yielding fields. We have also heard that canes earmarked for harvesting are recording lower output but identified for harvesting. It begs the question as to what is really taking place at the estate. More recently,

the estate is confronting increased rat infestation, as abandoned fields provide a hospitable environment.

Clearly, a lot of work is required to restore Blairmont to its former self. President Irfaan Ali, at a recent meeting with GuySuCo management, indicated that his Government seeks to have 60% of the cultivation mechanized by the end of 2024. While efforts are focused in this regard, similar attention needs to be paid to the agronomic challenges that have beset the estate.

Page 3

Combat - April-June, 2022

Oil sector company approves pay increase to expatriate employees but excludes locals

It is widely recognised that workers and their families are facing serious constraints arising from the substantial hike in the cost of living. Notwithstanding efforts by policy makers to provide breathing room, the ascen-

COMMENTARY:

sion of prices remains steep for many important and essential commodities and services. In this regard, some enterprises, we are aware, have sought to alleviate their workers’ burdens by approving pay rises, as they recog-

nize the importance of their employees.

Undoubtedly, it was against that background that a well-known foreign-owned oil sector company decided to improve pay rates for

its employees. Dismayingly, the GAWU Oil and Gas Branch was informed that the increases were only approved for that company’s expatriate staffers. The locals, on the other hand, who comprise a significant proportion of the workforce, were excluded from that company’s consideration. The Guyanese employees informed our Union that they are at a loss for their exclusion. They shared with us that their foreign colleagues earn substantially more than them, but, inexplicably, their salaries were insufficient, thus necessitating the pay rise. The workers were perplexed that if it was that the foreigners were receiving inadequate pay, it did not take any serious examination to understand their situation.

The workers said they heard rumblings that the locals did not require any pay rises. They said that from what they learnt, their foreign bosses felt that their earnings were more than adequate, and a pay rise would represent essentially a favour. The workers

told GAWU they were simply appalled that their employer would engage in such demeaning thoughts. Some employees who have been there for several years to date have not received any rise in pay, despite continuing to perform credibly.

The GAWU is deeply disturbed by the actions of the foreign enterprise.

It represents yet another assault that Guyanese workers in the oil sector are confronting, and further illustrates the need for the sector to be organized. Of course, many foreign owned companies have adopted stringent anti-union policies, and have sought to quell any efforts by workers to become unionized. This is not surprising, given the exploitative practices perpetuated by some enterprises in the sector. Some firms, we have heard, have sought to assure their workers that they have their interest at heart. This, of course, is a misnomer, as only their bottom line is what really matters, and workers’ becoming unionized seemingly represents a threat to profitability. It is indeed a disheartening situation.

Address the message!

President Irfaan Ali and GAWU’s President Seepaul Narine exchanging views at the Enmore Martyrs activity on June 16, 2022 At the rally activity to commemorate Martyrs to share its thoughts on the the former Coalition Administration, the 74th Anniversary of the brutal sugar industry, given the activity’s link the sugar industry to this day rekilling of the Enmore Martyrs, His with the industry. GAWU has never mains the country’s largest employer.

Excellency President Irfaan Ali, in his been one to shy away from express- During the 2020 elections campaign, own style, chose to offer a response ing its position on issues, whether now President Ali had expressed to certain sentiments with respect to they coincide with the views of the similar sentiments, and even after he the sugar industry shared by GAWU’s others. For GAWU, sugar remains, in became President, he shared similar President Seepaul Narine, who had spite of the travails, too important to thoughts. A March 07, 2022 article spoken before him. As always, the fail. published by the Department of PubUnion used the forum of the Enmore Despite its heartless downsizing by lic Information quoted President Ali as

saying, “We are not going to reinvent the wheel—sugar is viable. I said this a long time ago: from a financial and economic and social perspective, sugar is viable.”

During GAWU President’s address, the Union reflected on the sugar industry. It welcomed and supported the contributions of the Ali Administration in support of the industry. Two (2) days prior to the Enmore Martyrs activity, President Ali engaged the senior leadership of the GuySuCo. News reports indicated that the President told the management team gathered that “it cannot be business as usual.” The media also informed that the President reiterated the Government’s seriousness about returning the industry to viability. Against that background, the Union, in speaking about sugar, expressed its concern about the production and productivity levels. It outlined the production had declined to a low, and there was an urgent need to arrest the situation.

Against that background, the GAWU urged the President to shakeup the management of the sugar company, and advanced this should begin with the topmost executive.

Undoubtedly, having listened attentively to the Union’s remarks, the

President wanted to offer his take.

At this point, the President invited GAWU’s President to the podium to answer some questions. The President sought to confine the responses to mere ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Of course, the GAWU President sought to provide explanations to contextualize his responses. While President Ali certainly wanted to, and had every right to, offer his views, it appears he may not have fully digested the Union’s views, and did not appear to address the issues of production and productivity. Rather, it appeared he sought to address the messenger instead of dealing with the message. The President, after his exchange with GAWU’s President, proceeded to present his remarks. Several matters were addressed, and the President reinforced the need for the Union, the workers, the Government and the GuySuCo to work together. For GAWU and the workers, the sugar industry requires competent and trusted leadership. In its absence, the industry will continue to be challenged.

President Ali, in summing up his remarks, reminded that the workers had a friend in him. In a friendly manner, we urge the President to take account of the situation.

Labour Day 2022

Page 4

Combat - April-June, 2022

After a two (2) year break arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, workers were able to celebrate Labour Day 2022 in the traditional way. The GAWU joined with its affiliates of the FITUG in a march and rally. The observances saw massive worker participation as comrades held their placards addressing several issues of our day. The large turnout is yet another reminder of the power possessed by the working-class.

Page 5

Combat - April-June, 2022

GAWU participates in IUF Regional Women’s Conference

GAWU urges WFTU to continue to play a leading role in pro-peoples’ struggles

Delegates attending the IUF Caribbean Regional Conference on June 21, 2022 took a group picture. Second from the right is IUF General Secretary, Sue Longley GAWU Executive Committee member, Cde Taramattie Dyal participated in the International Union of Food, Agricultural, Hotel, Restaurant, Catering, Tobacco and Allied Workers’ Associations (IUF) held its Caribbean Regional Women and Domestic Worker’s Conference in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda under the theme “Representing Women and Domestic Workers in a Post Pandemic World” on June 21, 2022. The Conference which was hosted by the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) and the Antigua Trades & Labour Union (AT&LU) saw participation from women across the region.

The Conference featured delegates from IUF-affiliated unions in Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Bahamas, Jamaica, Bermuda, Grenada, Dominica, St. Lucia, and Antigua and Barbuda. During the Conference, delegates addressed discussions and developments to aid in defending and recognizing the rights of women in the working environment. IUF’s General Secretary, Sue Longley, the organisation’s first female General

Secretary, identified the need for affiliates to ensure that workers are protected at work, as violence and sexual harassment exist among the different sectors.

It was also pointed out during the discussions that Antigua and Barbuda was the only Caribbean country which had implemented ILO Convention 190 that spoke to work place violence and harassment. It was agreed that affiliates should consider strategies to advance ratification among other Caribbean states in an effort ensure same is being done among other countries as a matter to ensure protection among employees.

The Conference also elected a new interim Women’s regional committee.

Those elected are: Ronaldine Burgess – President from Bermuda; Shakeda Williams, Vice President from Barbados; and Andie Stephen – Secretary from Antigua and Barbuda.

All in all, the Conference was a success, as it was able to consider the situations in various countries and develop a plan of action to be implemented in the coming period.

Delegates and observers participating in the 18th Congress of the World Federation of Trade Unions (WFTU). The Congress was attended by 430 delegates from 93 countries.

The GAWU participated in the 18th world’s poorest have witnessed all- may grow direr, as world food prices Congress of the World Federation of round decline. were rising to new highs and many in Trade Unions (WFTU) held in Rome, Alongside the rising inequality, the the global poor were facing starvation Italy from May 06 to 08, 2022. Rep- GAWU General Secretary noted, the and malnutrition. resenting the Union were its General expanding army of the unemployed, Cde Aslim charged that, at the same Secretary Aslim Singh and its Assis- which is expected to grow in the time, we are seeing renewed fighttant General Secretary/Treasurer Po- coming year. Cde Aslim expressed back among the working-class and randatt Narine. The Congress, which consternation that the gains in ad- their allies. As he recognised in severattracted over 430 delegates al countries, workers’ struggles from 93 countries across the for betterment were growing world, benefitted from spiritstronger daily. On that note, he ed contributions over its three saw those developments placdays. The challenges facing the ing greater responsibilities on world’s working-peoples and the WFTU, and urged it to contheir families, as well as the tinue to take a leading role in the youth, the students, the penglobal working class democratsioners, the farmers, and other ic, anti-imperialist and peace dispossessed groups, received struggles presently underway. extensive attention.

The Congress was successful, GAWU’s General Secretary, and elected a new President who addressed the Congress, Council, which will manage recognised the contributions of the affairs of the WFTU until its the WFTU towards enhancing next Congress. The Congress and protecting the rights and concluded with the election of a conditions of the working-class new General Secretary, Pambis throughout the world. Through Kyritsis, who is charged with the address, the GAWU releading the WFTU as its influflected on the current threats ence continues to grow. In the posed by wars of aggression, Rome declaration, the Congress and the undermining of peace set out the work and activities of in several parts of the world. the organization in the coming The Union urged that those who years as it considered the maniseek to promote conflict do so GAWU’s General Secretary, Cde Aslim Singh fold challenges of our times. for their own nefarious and self- delivering his address to the WFTU Congress Our Union has been an affliate ish reasons. The steadily rising of the WFTU for many years. inequality among the world’s Throughout our years of assicapeopled also received the attention of vancing decent work have been sig- tion, the WFTU has always extended the GAWU General Secretary. In his nificantly impacted, and since 2020, its solidarity with our Union and the address, Cde Aslim lamented that the some 30 million persons more were struggles of workers. Its steadfast world’s richest have seen their wealth pushed into extreme poverty. At the defence of the working-class remains growing, whereas the incomes of the same time, he outlined the situation its guiding principle.

Page 6

Combat - April-June, 2022

GAWU President on Labour Day 2022:

Workers remain critical to national development!

Comrades, it is Labour Day 2022!

We are pleased that, after two (2) years, we can all be here together.

We extend fraternal greetings to the working people of Guyana. Labour

Day gives us an opportunity to demonstrate our solidarity, to take stock of our victories, and to assess our challenges. It reminds that our struggles for a just and better society are still to be realized, but our united actions will bring us closer to our objectives.

Comrades, Labour Day emerged around bitter struggles for an eighthour working day. That struggle saw some 80,000 workers in 1886 marching through the streets of Chicago, USA. As in times before, the ruling classes sought to intimidate and unleash violence, but the workers were not cowed. Their united actions realized the demand of Chicago 1886, and that struggle, like many others, remains an inspiration. To-

Comrades, the struggles of past and present workers have removed us from the shackles of colonialism and later from undemocratic rule. Workers’ activism has led to enhanced rights, improved benefits, and greater protection at work. We take pride in those victories, but today we are disappointed with the treatment meted out to some workers. Some sections

of the Guyanese working-class continue to endure exploitative practices at their workplaces as their rights are disrespected and fundamental principles violated.

There are workers who do not get overtime despite working beyond the normal working hours.

is an unfortunate development, and it is receiving the active attention of our union. The issues, irrespective of their origin, are the same, and speak to an absence of respect and dignified employment relations. But comrades, as history has demonstrated, respect is earned when we stand together and remain united. Despite the adversity, we can overcome. We are certain, as was demonstrated in the past, that only genuine trade unions with workers’ support can bring exploitative workplace practices to an end. for those not present here listening to me, let me be clear: you have to join a union, a genuine union.

we last met, that there is an increasing reliance on foreign labour within some sectors of the economy. It is contended that

foreigners bring skills absent among Guyanese workers, which may indeed be the case in some instances. Lest I be misunderstood, let me be pellucid that neither the FITUG nor its affiliates are averse to foreigners or foreign investment. However, we must

be concerned when we hear foreigners occupy jobs that can be staffed by locals. In some instances we have heard, foreigners enjoy conditions and benefits superior to their Guyanese counterparts doing the same job. For-

The provision of grants and other direct support to vulnerable groups would have assisted to stem the challenges. We recognize, too, that fiscal measures have been pursued to reduce duties payable on imported commodities. This measure undoubtedly is well-intentioned, but we believe is not reaching the ordinary people.

Day was made a National Holiday in 1958 by former President Janet Jagan when she served as Minister of Labour.

Our coming together demonstrates the strength of the working-class.

Though some seek to downplay the efforts of the workers, we remind that it is the workers who ensure the wheels of progress remain turning. Comrades, the advancements our nation records are indivisibly linked to the workers in the fields, factories, offices, and elsewhere, and it is the workers who will propel us into greater prosperity.

Comrades, at this time, more than ever, the rising cost-of-living is occupying the minds of the working-people. According to official statistics, the cost of food jumped by 11.7 percent in 2021.

Since then, the situation has been exacerbated, arising from the ongoing global occurrences.

We are conscious that the situation is not isolated, but is of a global nature.

In addressing the cost-of-living, we acknowledge the efforts to alleviate the hikes consumers are confronting.

day, we are reminded yet again that workers can win their just demands through their collective actions, and it is our solidarity that will bring forth new victories. We recollect, too, that Labour

Today, we are pleased that so many of you have come out holding your banners proudly. We recognize that our gathering has workers from several corners of our country. Indeed, we are a representation of Guyana, and despite our varying backgrounds, we have a common objective. This epitomizes the goal of ‘One Guyana’, where we can work to build a proud nation, sound and secure for the future.

prove training opportunities to ensure that our people can take up various roles. We are supportive of the Local Content Act, which we believe will go a long way to address this challenge.

We urge that every effort be made to ensure that the Act is respected, and FITUG remains willing to play an active role. We also encourage a comprehensive examination be conducted prior to the issuance of work permits to promote the employment of qualified locals. This may require the collaboration of several agencies.

GAWU’s President, Cde Seepaul Narine delivering his address to workers at the FITUG Labour Day Rally on May 01, 2022 at the NIS Sports Complex. The rally saw a massive participation of workers as they returned to the streets to observe this important day of the working-class.

Some are denied personal protective equipment, as agencies do not cater for such costs. And there are those whose NIS contributions are deducted but the Scheme has no contributions for them.

These occurrences have arisen mainly in the unorganized sectors.

We are conscious many employers are law-abiding and decent, but there are others who seemingly have no regard for their employees. This

Comrades, we are disappointed that Labour Day 2022 has arrived and the National Minimum Wage remains $44,200 monthly. We had anticipated that by this time the new minimum wage of $60,000 per month, which enjoys the support of the social partners, would have been implemented.

We remain concerned about the rising trend of agency employment that is creating an arm’s length relationship between workers and their workplaces. It has brought, in our view, greater unpredictability and precariousness to the world of work. At this time, several important questions have been asked, but answers are not forthcoming. Undoubtedly, some focused attention is needed, given the expansion of such relations.

eign labour is being promoted also against the background of a labour shortage within Guyana.

We contend that improved conditions and pay to our Guyanese workers may well be the answer.

It is our considered view that it is very difficult for any worker to survive on the current minimum wage. At this time, the current minimum wage, when adjusted for inflation, is worth less than $39,000 monthly; and therefore, the proposed $60,000 may require further reconsideration for higher adjustment.

We have recognised, too, since

On this matter, we recognise efforts of the Government to increase and im-

Continued on page ten (10)

Nonetheless, this situation is a wakeup call for my Guyanese brothers and sisters. We have to change our work ethics to win the competitive edge in the work market.

Page 7

Combat - April-June, 2022

GAWU Assistant General Secretary elected as Vice President of IUF Regional Young Workers Committee

GAWU’s Assistant General Secretary/Treasurer, Cde Porandatt Narine (sitting second from the right) with other Committee members sitting as well as delegates attending the IUF Caribbean Region Young Workers Conferennce. During the one-day Conference, Cde Porandatt was elected First Vice President of the Committee.

GAWU’s Assistant General Secretary/Treasurer, Cde Porandatt Narine, was elected 1st Vice President of the International Union of Food, Agricultural, Hotel, Restaurant, Catering, Tobacco and Allied Workers’ Associations (IUF) Regional Young Workers Committee at the Regional Conference held on June 20, 2022 in Antigua and Barbuda. The Conference, which was hosted by the the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) and the Antigua Trades & Labour Union (AT&LU), took place within a week of activities as the IUF hosted its Caribbean Regional Conference.

The Youth Conference was held under the theme: “IUF Caribbean Defending Young Workers in a Post Pandemic World” and it brought together twelve (12) young unionists from Jamaica, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados, Dominica, Gre-

nada, Bahamas, Belize, St Lucia, and Antigua and Barbuda. During the Conference, delegates discussed the importance of heightening youth participation within the regional trade union movement. This, the Conference recognised, was an important and necessary task. The Conference was seen by the delegates as enlightening, and undoubtedly the sharing of experiences enriched its outcomes. It was felt that the Conference was held at an opportune moment, as unions and workers alike are addressing the situation with the post COVID-19 pandemic period and the role of the movement in developing appropriate responses within the new scenario.

Addressing the Conference was IUF Regional Secretary Clifton Grant, who told participants: “The work you are going to do here today will determine the future of the young workers im-

pact on the Trade Union Movement in the region.” Cde Grant charged the delegates to continue to make meaningful contributions and expand the cadre of young workers to build the next round of leaders within the movement.

The Conference also elected new officers to the IUF Caribbean Regional Young Workers Committee. The newly elected officers are: Shawn Torres – President, from Belize; Porandatt Narine – 1st Vice President, from Guyana; Shakiena Khan – 2nd Vice President, also from Guyana; Avadeen Ross – Secretary, from Jamaica, and Tamara Brown – Assistant Secretary, also from Jamaica.

From all indications, the Conference was a success, and the young workers are energized at they return to their various unions to expand the work of the IUF.

Labour Ministry tells GFC to pay terminated workers by June 30, 2022 During 2021, the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) terminated contracts of employment with five (5) employees at varying times. Though the Termination of Employment and Severance Pay Act (TESPA) requires the Commission to provide severance pay to the workers, it has refused, contending that the workers are not entitled. The GAWU, as the workers’ bargaining agent, represented the workers to the GFC, which refused. We subsequently sought the involvement of the La-

bour Ministry as we pointed out unambiguously that the workers’ letters clearly outlined they were terminated.

We held that, in the circumstances, the workers ought to receive severance pay. The Ministry agreed with the Union’s contentions and recommended that the workers be paid their termination benefits.

The Union has continued to follow-up this matter to ensure that the workers receive justice. Initially, the Commission had requested the Ministry advance its recommendation in

writing. Though we did not believe it was necessary, as the Ministry’s position was clear, the GAWU persevered, and through the assistance of Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, the GFC was written to on May 30, 2022.

Through its letter, the Ministry confirmed that the workers ought to be paid their severance benefits.

Additionally, it has given the GFC until June 30, 2022 to settle its obligations. Thereafter, further actions may be taken.

Uitvlugt GAWU Branch Conference asks:

What are the plans?

Comrades attending the Uitvlugt GAWU Branch Conference on June 12, 2022. The Conference unanimously approved a resolution calling on GuySuCo and the Government to provide greater clarity on the plans for the Estate’s future. The estate at this time requires substantial efforts to reverse the deterioration within its cultivation.

The Uitvlugt GAWU Branch Conference, held on June 12, 2022 at the Uitvlugt Community Centre, taking into account the state of the estate, unanimously approved the following resolution: Conscious: That the Uitvlugt sugar estate remains the only operable estate in West Demerara, and provides employment for some 1,200 persons; Further conscious: That the estate supports thousands of persons, whether as direct dependents, as vendors, as shopkeepers, taxi and bus operators, among others; Further conscious: That outside of the estate, job opportunities within the vicinity remain limited; Convinced: That given the estate’s immense importance, not only to the workers, but many others in the community, every effort should be made to safeguard its operations; Aware: That the estate has been experiencing challenges in the last years that have seen production declining; Further aware: That an absence of investment in the Uitvlugt Estate and the sugar industry as a whole between 2015 and 2020 has contributed in a meaningful way to the challenges confronted;

Further aware: That a substantial portion of the estate’s cultivation has been allocated to cane farmers of which just a small amount are actually engaged in cane cultivation; Further aware: Of the lands remaining in control of the estate, some areas have been released for the development of housing areas over the past two (2) years; Further aware: That the reduction in the size of the cultivation and the absence of farmers in cultivating their lands will place the estate into greater difficulty; Further aware: The Uitvlugt GAWU Branch is aware of the Government of Guyana’s commitment to revitalizing the sugar industry and ensuring its long-term sustainability; Resolves: To call on the Government of Guyana and GuySuCo to engage a representative number of workers on its plans for the Uitvlugt sugar estate, to ensure that it is restored to its previous past, and that it remains a source of sustenance for thousands along the West Coast of Demerara.

Copies of the resolution have been sent to the CEO of GuySuCo and the Minister of Agriculture, and we are awaiting their response.

New National Minimum Wage

$60,147 monthly

Page 8

Combat - April-June, 2022

Food insecurity increases in the US while it declines in Nicaragua, whose Socialist Government has defied US regime change designs housed population. “Vehicle residency is one of the fastest-growing forms of homelessness,” said Sara Rankin, Professor of Law and Director of the Homeless Rights Advocacy Project at the Seattle University School of Law. US foreign policy has had a major effect on hunger and nutrition in developing nations for many years. US. agricultural policies aggressively promote creating markets for our farmers by promoting international reliance on US food exports.

Co-operative farmers in Nicaragua who, through land reform, were given lands to engage in production. Nicaragua is home to a unique phenomenon: over half of the national income comes from cooperatives and small family businesses, together dubbed the “popular economy,” a huge employment generator in the country that has historically been one of the poorest in the Americas. With 59.3 percent of gross income from the popular economy, 27.3 from the private sector, and 13.3 percent from the public sector, Nicaragua is a success story in cooperative development.

By Nan McCurdy In 2018, 48% of US-based churches had their own food-distribution ministry or supported efforts run by other churches or organizations, such as food pantries or food banks. These faith-based ministries, unlike government programs, provide immediate help to hungry people with no requirements. And more than two million people volunteer at a food pantry, soup kitchen, emergency shelter or after-school programs in the US, working more than 100 million volunteer hours a year—according to Hunger in America 2014, a study conducted by Feeding America.

with children could not buy enough food for their families. The prevalence of food insecurity was much higher in some states than others, ranging from 5.7% in New Hampshire to 15.3% in Mississippi from 2018 to 2021.

This wave of charity recognizes a serious problem in the United States: Despite being a wealthy nation, food insecurity remains high.

Twice as many Black households experience hunger than white households. During the pandemic, 19% to 29% of Black homes with children have reported not having enough to eat; 16% to 25% of Latino homes and 7% to 14% of white homes reported the same. Black families go hungry at 2 to 3 times the rate of white families. Some 43% of Black households with children have experienced food insecurity during the pandemic—the highest rate in recorded history. Children get sick more often if they are not consuming enough nutritious food, and hunger impedes learning.

In the US, the average percentage of households with food insecurity stayed between 10% and 15% from 1995 until 2020, when the numbers shot up. Despite volunteer and government food aid, hunger grew 9% from 2019 to 2020, when 38 million people were hungry. According to recent research by the US Census Bureau from the week before Christmas 2021, 81 million people experienced food insecurity, and 45 million reported not having enough food. Families with children have suffered most: The rate of hunger has been 41% to 83% higher for households with children than adult-only households.

In 2020, one in seven households

Thus, one in four people in the US, the richest nation on Earth, did not have adequate access to sufficient nutritious food needed for a healthy life. In the face of this pervasive food insecurity, families turn to a variety of sources for help. More than 42 million people rely on SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

During the Covid pandemic, the USDA increased the purchasing power of the plan—by 21% —for the first time since 1975. There were also emergency allotments that increased the value of food stamps people received.

This part will likely end soon. In 2019, 35 million people relied on food charity, another sign that millions of people

do not earn a living wage.

Undocumented immigrants are more dependent on food pantries because they are excluded from government programs. Church-related food programs make a big difference for these people’s lives, especially for their children. One in eight families has reduced their food spending to pay for health care. And Black families are twice as likely to be unable to afford health care. Impoverishment in the United States includes food insecurity, lack of decent housing, lack of health care, poorly paid employment or no employment, and poor quality public education. Approximately 80% of households receiving food stamps had at least one worker, indicating that millions of people do not earn a living wage. In 2019, unemployment of Black individuals was double the rate of whites, and Blacks were much more likely to only earn minimum wage or less.

In 2020, the average Black family had $1,500 for emergency spending, while white families had $7,500.

Only 10% of Latino families had savings to last six months, while 36% of whites did. In January 2020, at least 580,466 Americans were without a home, and 30% of those were children. Marginalized racial groups are more likely to be without homes as a result of segregation and discrimination in housing and employment as well as in many other areas of life. Hunger is not universal among unhoused people; however, it is much more frequent than among the

US loan policies are never aimed at the food security of the population of developing nations; instead, they promote production and export of products such as bananas, sugar and coffee to the point that many developing nations are producing and exporting the same things. Thus, the international price stays artificially low, and the countries benefit little from these exports. Small and medium-scale farmers plant the food that local people eat, like corn, beans, rice, vegetables and fruits, and they also raise farm animals in a more healthful way than large corporations. But US policies have contributed to placing that land into the hands of large landowners and corporations. The US influences national policies of developing nations such that it is very difficult for small and medium-scale farmers to get loans or any other kinds of government support.

The US subsidizes its own farmers to the point that products like corn and rice are actually sold below what would be the real price. In this way, they put small and medium-scale corn and rice producers out of business in developing nations—they simply cannot compete with the large-scale subsidized farmers. So, most end up having to sell their land, leading to more large export-based farms—many now owned by US corporations. This whole process also leads to more migration out of these countries. Dependency on food imports from the US also undermines the international goals formulated at the 1974 UN World Food Conference to encourage food self-reliance and security from hunger.

The small nation of Nicaragua in Central America has worked on ending poverty for the last fifteen years.

One of the most important strategies has been to develop food security, and today they have reached approximately 90% food security.

This means that small and medium-scale farmers are producing 90% of the food that Nicaraguans eat: corn, beans, rice, plantains, vegetables, fruits, chicken, fish, pork, beef,

honey, sugar, etc. Their population is much more food secure in times of crisis, whether it be a climate-related crisis or a political crisis. There are no factory farms of cattle, pigs or chicken. There are large and corporate producers of export crops like sugarcane; but even coffee production for export is held more in the hands of small and medium-scale producers.

Along with this, they now have almost 100% electricity coverage, more than 90% of people have potable water in their homes, and there is good universal health care and education including technical and university education. The government subsidizes transportation, electricity and water for their more vulnerable population.

Since petroleum prices skyrocketed in March 2022, the government is covering all the increases in electricity, gas and gasoline. Since 2007, amazingly, they have increased renewable energy from 20% to almost 80% and are in third place worldwide.

They had a major land reform in the 1980s that put land into the hands of nearly a million people. During three governments by and for the wealthy from 1990 to early 2007, much of that land returned to the hands of the wealthy. But government policies have helped nearly 600,000 families legalize their property. The government also makes technical assistance, training and low-interest loans available to micro and small-scale farm families.

It is interesting to note that, during the years of the Somoza-family dictatorship, supported by the US from the 1930s to 1979, there was much concentration of land in a few hands.

That impacted what was grown and how. In the western Pacific area, there were so many pesticides used for production of cotton that, even today, pesticides are found in the breast milk of women from this area.

Because of current Nicaragua policies that benefit the people instead of US corporations, the US has been doing many things to destabilize Nicaragua politically, and even directed and financed a coup attempt in 2018.

Although it didn’t fly, it cost the economy billions of dollars, and the US continues to try to destroy the excellent example Nicaragua is giving to the world. Just visit Nicaragua, and you will see that another world is possible and that we could be employing similar policies globally.

Page 9

Combat - April-June, 2022

WFTU statement on the No more exploitation of the environment 2022 NATO summit and workers for the sake of profit - WFTU

WFTU comrades marching through the streets of Madrid, Spain during the 2022 NATO summit. The WFTU has long stood in favour of world peace and opposed to organisations and individuals who promote and thrive on conflict and wars. In our times, wars and conflicts have extracted a significant human and physical toll, while pressing issues such as climate change, inequality, poverty and other social ills do not receive adequate attention. It is argued that monies spent on militarisation could end poverty globally and build a better planet for all humanity.

The World Federation of Trade Unions, representing more than 105 million workers from 133 countries on the 5 continents, in view of the 2022 NATO summit on 29-30 June in Madrid, strongly and unequivocally condemns the existence of NATO, which constitutes an aggressive war machine in the service of the interests of the imperialist countries of the alliance.

We denounce the provocative lies and official narratives of NATO that the goal of the alliance is to ”keep its one billion people safe”. The peoples all over the world know that the bloody mission of this imperialist alliance is to maintain, and expand if possible, the existing favourable correlation of forces for the NATO countries, in order to safeguard the profits of their monopolies. In the imperialist system, which is characterized by uneven interdependencies that govern the relations between all the capitalist states, both the peoples of the member-states of NATO and the other counties’ peoples have nothing to expect from the imperialist alliances and wars except death, suffering, poverty, and misery.

We denounce the exclusions, discriminations, embargoes, and sanc-

tions imposed by the US, NATO, and the EU against various countries, as they negatively impact the standard of living of low-income families, workers, poor small farmers, and popular strata in general.

We denounce the hypocritic “concern” of leaders of the USA, EU, and NATO, who shamelessly invoke International Law and the defense of freedom when they speak about the Russian invasion of Ukraine. They speak as if human history began in February 2022, they falsify historical reality, confirming that truth is always one of the first victims of war. NATO invoke peace, self-determination, territorial integrity, international law, democracy, and human rights, while they are the first who wage wars killing ”whatever their peace has left over”. They are the first who intervene in the internal affairs of other states, change borders, and violate international law and human rights in order to broaden their spheres of influence and serve their geostrategic plans.

Those who are responsible for countless invasions and interventions are primarily responsible for the militarization of international relations, as they insist on maintaining and expanding NATO within the context of a

New World Order.

World peace cannot be protected through militarization or through the patronage of all kinds of extreme right-wing nationalist and fascist ideologies. World peace cannot be based on sanctions and economic wars. Those who, as a matter of principle, stand for peace and freedom, fight for the dissolution of NATO and all military coalitions, the dismantling of nuclear weapons, the respect for the independence and sovereignty of all countries, rather than only those which align with, and serve the interests of the United States and their allies.

The World Federation of Trade Unions firmly believes military spending deprives people of the fundamental right to live with dignity, and that NATO is destabilizing the world, and demand unconditional and urgent dissolution of NATO. The WFTU calls upon the workers all over the world to fight against imperialist wars and the system that creates them, to struggle for world peace and the solidarity among the peoples, to oppose the waste of resources and money for military purposes, to demand the dismantling of nuclear weapons and the immediate dissolution of NATO.

New National Minimum Wage

$347 hourly

$13,880 weekly

Undoubtedly one of the issues that has been raised in the public debate in recent years is the environmental crisis and its various implications.

Climate change, global warming, extreme weather events, sea level rise, environmental degradation, deforestation, pollution of air, water, soil, seas and forests, the degradation of biodiversity and the ecosystem, the uncontrolled and unregulated capitalist economic activity in mining, agriculture, stockraising, the production, The creation of conditions for the outbreak of pandemics and diseases are issues for which scientists have been revealing data and sounding the alert for years.

One illustrative example is that almost all the children all over the world (99%) are affected by at least one of the climate and environmental hazards, shock and stresses such as heatwaves, cyclones, riverine flooding, coastal flooding, water scarcity, vector-borne diseases, air pollution, leas pollution, while hundreds of millions of children are affected by up to 5 of the consequences of the environmental crisis according to Unicef.

Five of the main factors that have raised the debate on this issue are: a) the increasing scientific research that finds-records climate change and its effects b) the technological development of production methods that make feasible and relatively economically viable the renewable and “green” technologies c) the increasingly aggressive investment and accumulation made by monopoly groups in the field of “renewable” energy sources and “green” commodities to ensure “green profits” d) increasing visibility of so-called “green” and “sustainable” development policies on the agenda of governments, political parties, and international organizations and e) the consequently recorded increase in interest and raising of public awareness on relevant issues.

The World Federation of Trade Union and the class-oriented trade union movement have always as one of its priorities the environmental issues.

On the one hand, the workers and the popular strata objectively have no material incentive or interest in the infamous exploitation of nature and the deterioration of the social and working environment, and on the other hand, the workers, the poor peasants,

the ordinary people, and peoples are the ones who are exposed and unprotected to the various negative consequences in the environment caused by the unregulated capitalist production. The common people, the poor people, and the popular strata of every country are the ones who are poisoned and die due to polluted air, buried in the garbage, drowned in floods and hurricanes, burned in fires and heatwaves, faced with social exclusion, poverty, and miserable living and working conditions. According to the International Labor Organization, the poorest and least developed countries – that is, the countries that are less responsible for creating the problem – are more likely to face the worst effects.

The contradiction between the owners of the means of production and the workers, as well as the unregulated and uneven development of capitalism, especially monopoly capitalism, deepen all the timeless inequalities and contradictions, while new ones appear and swell. The unregulated capitalist economy, especially since the Industrial Revolution, has caused deterioration in the living and working environment of workers at all levels (labour, social, physical, and technological). Most ecosystems have been overexploited and polluted, often irreversibly, due to the indiscriminate use of natural resources and the exploitation of labour power with the main objective of profit, and the main result being the accumulation of capital in the hands of the few.

The international class-oriented trade union movement is struggling for the protection and the upgrade of the environment, to ensure health, prosperity, decent work, and to meet the modern needs of humanity.

The WFTU does not underestimate, and asserts any measures that can and must be taken within capitalism to limit climate change, but at the same time puts the issue in its proper dimension and seeks the solution in the abolition of its root causes, the capitalist relations of production. The solution is not a new capitalist development on “green” terms, but the liberation from the voracious model of capitalist development and the building of a society free from the profit motive in the production and exploitation of man and nature.

Page 10

Combat - April-June, 2022

Workers remain critical to national development!

Continued from page six (6)

Comrades, since we last met, our economy has witnessed significant expansion, with growth pegged at more than seventy (70) percent between 2019 and 2021. This is remarkable, considering the challenges during the period. This expansion is not expected to slow, as growth of nearly fifty (50) percent is forecasted for 2022 and just under thirty-five (35) percent in 2023. Given the immense challenges our nation has confronted, we are heartened by such developments. We, however, are cognizant that the expansion recorded and anticipated is linked to the activities within one sector. At this time, the world is replete with examples of nations placing their eggs in one basket and the consequences of such direction. We are mindful of the efforts of the Administration to seek to ensure that development is broad-based and that our people’s lives are bettered. Along these lines, we recognize substantial investment in infrastructure, the nurturing of the private sector, and development of new economic sectors. These could address some of the challenges that rapid economic expansion may bring.

It may also assist in diversifying our economy, placing us on a stronger footing. Alongside those efforts, we see attention being paid to enhance our knowledge base and capacity.

We welcome these initiatives, and urge that special emphasis be placed on vulnerable and poorer sections of the society to minimize inequality and reduce poverty. We believe it may be worthwhile to explore other initiatives to support poorer families to ensure they are not left out from the rapid development.

We also note the Government’s efforts to consolidate traditional economic sectors. The sugar industry is one area that has received special attention.

The Government’s support is critical to the turnaround of the industry, which had been largely sidelined between 2015 and 2020. Today, the legacy of the willful damage spitefully inflicted by the APNU/AFC Government has set the industry back several years. It is only now that rehabilitation and replacement

of critical components, infrastructure and machinery are being addressed.

We are told by GuySuCo these are assisting in improving efficiency, though it has cautioned that additional resources are required to ensure that the revitalization process is concluded. Such support, we believe, will be forthcoming from the present Government, which has demonstrated its commitment to the industry,

condemnation.

In recent weeks, we have recognised that several of the industry’s assets have been identified for non-sugar ventures.

We are conscious that the Government is seeking to generate employment for the thousands who were sent home. This is indeed laudable, and the workers and their organizations must be involved in the process. This is critical in ensuring that decent

managers, and there is an urgent need to rebuild a new team now, as the industry is faltering in a number of areas and there is need to address these shortcomings towards hastening the industry’s turnaround.

Comrades, on this Labour Day, we must lament once again the undisguised efforts to steal our country’s elections in 2020. Indeed, it represents a sad and disgraceful chapter

call for World Peace and respect for countries’ sovereignty. The threat posed by climate change also remains a serious challenge. Recent reports indicated that the ecological degradation is advancing, and the world may be faced by irreversible damage.

Alongside these issues is the global rift between the world’s poorest and richest. Recent data has indicated that COVID-19 has exacerbated the conditions of inequality. These issues are collectively bound up in the current economic model which places profits ahead of people.

Comrades, as I conclude, we should not lose focus that we remain in the midst of the pandemic. Though we have seen steady improvements, we encourage everyone to take precautions and to obtain their vaccines to ensure they have sufficient protection. We regret that our 2022 May Day observances were not united.

This has always been a desire of the Federation. We remain committed to the unity of the labour movement; however, unity must come on the basis of principle and respect aimed at genuine representation of the working-people.

Workers attending the FITUG 2022 Labour Day rally at the NIS Sports Complex. The rally attracted several hundred workers who, prior to the rally, had marched through several streets in Georgetown, displaying proudly their banners and slogans as they advanced their call for betterment at the workplace and in the world generally. At the rally, they were addressed by several leaders of FITUG, who delivered messages that reflected on the current challenges of workers and reminders the workers of the power they possess. recognizing its importance not only economically, but socially as well.

Comrades, the uncaring attitude of the previous Coalition Government towards the sugar industry caused the industry to lose valuable time.

Some of those opportunities may never be regained. For the thousands of Guyanese put on the breadline and the tens of thousands pushed into poverty, they may never be able to retrieve what was lost. We recognize the now Opposition using every forum to denounce the sugar industry and the support it requires. This is disheartening, and is a demonstration, in our view, of their anti-people character. On this Labour Day and beyond today, they deserve our widest

jobs are created.

As the efforts are advanced to rebuild the industry, a critical component remains its workforce, whose efforts in this process should not be taken lightly.

We urge that alongside capital investment, appropriate investment in labour be pursued. As we have said previously, a motivated and committed workforce is a key prerequisite. Important to the industry as well is a capable management. We are conscious that the industry has lost many of its long standing, respected, dedicated and qualifed

of our history. Today, we remain

eternally grateful to those who stood up in defence of our democracy. Their contributions prevented our country from going over the precipice. Every effort is needed to avoid a repetition, and, on this Labour Day, we urge an impartial, independent inquiry be conducted.

Comrades, we observe that the world peace remains under severe threat. Ongoing conflicts in our world have the potential of leading to a new World War, which could give rise to the use of nuclear weapons.

We wish to add our voice to the

Comrades, on this Labour Day 2022, as workers, 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. We play a decisive role, and comrades, we must demand a seat at the decision-making table.

Today’s conditions do not call for complacency, but for greater activism. The spirit of Chicago 1886, as well as our own rich legacy, should serve to inspire us today. Let us remember these insightful words to the world’s workers: “Workers, Unite!

You have nothing to lose but your chains; you have a world to win”.

May Day greetings to the world’s working-people, and all citizens of Guyana!

Long live Proletarian Internationalism!

Long live Labour Day 2022!

Page 11

Combat - April-June, 2022

As we remember the Enmore Martyrs:

We need the right ‘team’ for sugar

GAWU President Seepaul Narine delivering his address at the Enmore Martyrs Rally on June 16, 2022 The GAWU is pleased, once more, to be associated with these observances as we pay tribute to Lallabagee Kissoon, Pooran, Rambarran, Dookie, and Harry, who nationally are known as the Enmore Martyrs. For our Union, the Enmore massacre represents a monumental turning point in our history. It reinforced that through our collective efforts there was no obstacle that was insurmountable. Indeed, in the years that followed Enmore 1948, as a people and a nation, we scored several victories and realized many aspirations.

Comrades, as we pay tribute to these National Heroes, we are reminded of the injustice and oppression that the martyrs, their colleagues, and, indeed, our foreparents endured. The Enmore struggle began on April 22, 1948, as workers along the East Coast protested the imposition of the cut-and-load system of cane cutting.

As the struggle widened, with Enmore becoming its epicenter, the workers’ expressions grew to denounce, justifiably, their squalid living conditions and deteriorating working conditions.

They also heightened their calls for the recognition of the Guiana Industrial Workers Union (GIWU), the forerunner of the GAWU, as the Union of their choice.

As in previous episodes of workers’ activism, the plantocracy, aided by the colonial masters, sought to brutally crush the struggle. It was a stereotypical response intended to ensure that the then colonial subjects remained docile as the plantocracy, and colonialists extracted maximum value. Indeed, comrades, it may have worked in several previous episodes. But alas, Enmore 1948 was different.

The Enmore struggle emerged when discontent among the workers in the colony was growing. In April 1947, a sixty-four (64) day strike by bauxite workers at Mackenzie and Ituni called attention to the racial discrimination and segregation perpetuated by the owners of the Demerara Bauxite Company. In late February 1948, the Transport Workers Union stood up against the arbitrary transfer of its leaders from Georgetown to different parts of the colony with an effective strike. Not only were the transfers cancelled, but the authoritarian Colonel Teare, who ordered the transfers, was hurriedly recalled by the Colonial Office. Apart from workers’ struggles during the 1940–1950 period, there were also significant developments.

Notably the formation of the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) by Dr Cheddi Jagan and others in 1946, out of which emerged the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in 1950. Among the new political party’s immediate priorities were heightening the call for universal adult suffrage and its bold challenge to the rule of the colonial masters and their local capitalist associates. Winning a seat in the Legislative Council in 1947 gave Dr Jagan an opportunity to advance pro-people and particularly pro-worker measures, and thus awakened the political consciousness of the people.

It was against that background that the Enmore incident and the martyrdom served in many quarters as an awakening call. Dr Jagan and his colleagues saw to that, and former President Janet Jagan had expressed that the brutal massacre sent a “thunderbolt” throughout the society and invigorated the liberation struggle that followed.

Indeed, the brutality of Enmore

1948, unlike the past, did not daunt the workers nor dampen their spirit.

Their militancy in the sugar industry grew, and political awareness and activities expanded. Sugar workers’ right to be represented by a union of their choice was won in 1976. Under the aegis of GAWU, sugar workers have taken part in several struggles.

They championed the nationalization of the sugar industry, stood up and fought for the restoration of democratic elections, and later challenged estate closure and the minimization of the industry. These struggles took place side by side with other struggles to improve wages and working conditions throughout the industry, and for other improvements. Additionally, workers, in more recent times, stood up against discrimination meted out to them by the former Government.

Guyana Today Now seventy-four (74) years after the brutality at Enmore, fifty-six (56) years of which we have been in the driver’s seat, how have we fared?

Undoubtedly, we have accomplished several objectives, and life for our people has improved. We are heartened by such developments, and see this as a fitting tribute to the Martyrs.

Though we take solace by such developments, we recognize there are still several objectives yet to be attained.

We recognize active efforts aimed at bettering the lives of Guyanese.

The GAWU supports economic advancements and all-round development which ensures that our wealth is equally distributed to the benefit of all Guyanese. Comrades, a major achievement stemming from the martyrdom was the attainment of Independence, and later Republican

status. The martyrdom reminds us of that period when our wealth was shipped abroad to enrich our masters while we languished. We need not repeat such pitfalls as an independent nation. We, of course, want to see Guyana prosper and our people flourish. However, as history has taught us, such goals can be attained when we stand together, remain principled, and ensure that our genuine concerns are not ignored or downplayed.

As we draw parallels from the Martyrs, we recollect the heightening living costs the working-class of that period faced. Renowned Cde Ashton Chase, in his seminal work – The History of Trade Unionism in Guyana: 1900 to 1961 – documented the costs of living had jumped significantly arising from the Second World War. Today, our people are also victims of another conflict waging far away from our shores. In recent months, a confluence of factors has occasioned a substantial jump in prices, placing tremendous challenges on our working-people and their families.

We must say we are not unmindful of the efforts furthered to bring reprieve to our people. Comrades, it should not be forgotten that among the calls of the Enmore Martyrs was the cry for improved wages. Against that background, we reiterate, once again, our call for the improvement in the National Minimum Wage as approved by the National Tripartite Committee. At this time, we believe a higher wage is necessary, given current circumstances, but we believe the long-outstanding improvement will allow our low earners to breathe a little easier.

Sugar industry Comrades, at the centre of the martyrdom was the sugar industry.

Today, the exploitative character of the industry has been condemned to history. Under the ownership of the State, the industry’s wealth played a meaningful role in developing our nation after enriching our foreign masters for hundreds of years. This, undoubtedly, is one of the lasting legacies of the Martyrs. Such feats, of course, cannot be separated from the successive struggles of the workers.

Today, the industry remains in a difficult situation. The spiteful closure of estates during the term of the Coalition Government can never be forgiven nor forgotten. For tens of thousands of Guyanese, it remains a scar that may never heal. Indeed, to those who authored and executed such policies they deserve our widest condemnation. We are certain that

when that chapter of national history is written, it will not be kind to them.

Presently, we are aware of the commitment of His Excellency Dr Irfaan Ali and his Government to revitalize the industry. This has been tangibly demonstrated, and we see efforts of several estates to improve capacity and capability. We are encouraged by those developments.

We also note that, at some former estates, there are commitments to pursue re-development, which may take us in another direction.

Comrades, in reflecting on sugar, we remain apprehensive as we consider the recently concluded first crop.

It simply was an appalling performance, the lowest first crop output in the history of the Corporation. We have heard the explanations of weather, labour and machinery. Such rationales, we contend, are over exemplified to obscure the real issue, which is poor leadership and management of the industry. The degeneration has reached to the point where workers’ Credit Union savings deducted from their wages are not remitted. It was pleasing, therefore, to recognize the President taking a proactive approach when we saw, a few days ago, His Excellency reportedly reading the Riot Act to the current leadership of the Corporation. Indeed, it appears, the President and the GAWU’s views are aligned. However, we say to you sir, action must be taken as a matter of urgency. We cannot allow the slide to continue. As the saying goes, “Heads must roll” and this should start from the topmost executive.

Cde President, you summed it up rightly when you said revitalizing the industry was serious business.

Do not allow the ineptness to embarrass your Government any longer.

Conclusion Comrades, the Enmore Martyrs remain an inspiration to us all. It reminds us of the adversities we have overcome, and tells us how far as a people we have travelled. We believe that the lessons and struggles of the Enmore Martyrs remain useful in our present times. They remind us that for us to win respect and bring an end to exploitation and oppression, we must stand together. Today, given the present situation, the heroism of the Martyrs remains an inspiration to us all. It is incumbent on us all to ensure that the legacy of their sacrifice remains an eternal guide.

Once again, GAWU is pleased to honour the Enmore Martyrs and acknowledge their abiding role in Guyana’s more recent history.

Page 12

FITUG notes President Ali’s comments on the National Minimum Wage

Several news outlets reported on President Irfaan Ali’s comments on the long-outstanding improvement to the national minimum wage (NMW).

From what we saw, Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton has been mandated to conduct wide consultations before presenting a paper to Cabinet.

Though the President did not outline what form the consultation would take nor who would be consulted, he did indicate, according to the June 05, 2022 Stabroek News, that “… the private sector had views on this issue.” Indeed, we do recollect the private sector’s views. The December 16, 2021, Guyana Chronicle quoted Private Sector Commission Chairman Mr Paul Cheong as saying, “We had a meeting… and we agreed on the $60,000. A lot of the companies al-

ready pay that and more as the minimum wage, and employees need to be comfortable. For those who are below it, it will be a good boost to their income. It’s small, but people need to be comfortable to perform properly enough”. Arising from that decision, the private sector’s representatives on the National Tripartite Committee (NTC) would have expressed their support for the improvement of the NMW in January, this year. The NTC comprises representatives of the labour movement, the business sector, and the Government, offering, in our view, an adequate forum for the exchange of views on this matter.

We therefore remain perplexed that, despite the unanimous support, the improvement of the NMW remains essentially stuck. We are convinced

that the present NMW can hardly be seen as adequate. Even the Government, through its recently launched part-time jobs programme, has taken cognizance of this reality. According to the May 25, 2022 Stabroek News, the part-time employees “… will be required to work for 10 days per month, earning approximately $40,000.” This contrasts with persons at the NMW working for no less than 20 days to earn $44,200.

The FITUG, nonetheless, seeks to play an active role in the consultations to be convened by Minister Hamilton.

Given our massive economic expansion, undoubtedly there is a need to ensure the current rising tide lifts all boats, and that Guyanese workers can seek to have a decent living. Indeed, President Ali himself has committed to such, and we believe that at this time the NMW should be revised speedily.

UPDATE Following President Ali’s comments to the media and FITUG’s statement on the matter, within a few days, the Government, it appeared, had a change of heart. On June 16, 2022, after the call for the improvement in the NMW was reiterated by GAWU President Seepaul Narine, President Ali announced that the Government had agreed to the improvement. Subsequently, the new NMW became implementable from July 01, 2022

Combat - April-June, 2022

GAWU and Guyana Gold Board negotiations continuing

Officials of GAWU and the GGB along with the Chief Labour Officer following the signing of the Recogntion Agreement in December, 2021 Negotiations between the GAWU and the Guyana Gold Board (GGB) towards addressing a new Collective Labour Agreement (CLA) are proceeding at this time. In recent weeks, the Union and the Board have met on several occassions and have been able to reach agreement on several clauses in the new Agreement.

Earlier this year, the GAWU submitted to the GGB a proposed thirty-two (32) CLA covering a number of issues, including meals’ allowances, overtime, station allowance, severance pay, equal opportunities, time-off for union activities, retirment, medical discharge, uniform allowance, among other things.

Through our discussions thus far,

exchanges between the parties have resulted in several improvements over the extant agreement. The new conditions, however, have not been implemented at this time, and will be activated when the new agreement if formalised.

GAWU became the recognised Union during latter part of 2021 after it won a poll where workers decided to choose our Union as their bargaining agent. Since then, we have managed to formalize the Recognition and Avoidance and Settlement of Disputes Agreement and hopefully soon a new CLA. The Union has also been able to address several matters of concern to the workers and workers have expressed satisfaction with the GAWU’s efforts.

Canes dumped at Blairmont Estate during first crop 2022

The pictures below depict canes which were harvested during the 2022 first crop at Blairmont Estate and were to be loaded mechanically. It was subsequently learnt that the estate took a decision to dump the canes rather than processing them into sugar. The situation raises serious concerns, given the absence of canes during the first crop. The GAWU has wrote the GuySuCo CEO on the matter, and in a response, the Corporation admitted to dumping the canes, citing the inability of the mechanised cane loaders to load the canes in a timely manner.

Page 13

Combat - April-June, 2022

Canes sprayed at Uitvlugt overtaken by weeds and vines Workers of Uitvlugt Estate have shared several pictures of canes which were reportedly sprayed by aircraft. Despite the supposed application of herbicides, weeds, grass, and vines proliferated, stifling canes’ growth. The application of chemicals by aircraft is a costly exercise, but if done properly, can have good results. Soon after, it was noticed that despite the ‘application’ of herbicides, no results were being seen. Later, we learnt that the estate had workers return to the fields in a bid to clean up what was a messy situation. The Union, learning of the situation, wrote GuySuCo, but despite a reminder, the Corporation did not offer any response to the worrying development. The GAWU was informed by the workers that chemicals far in excess of budgeted quantities would have been utilized to address the field conditions but the damage had already been done by that time.

DHBC told to withdraw warning letters and suspension of workers

The Ministry of Labour has told the Management of the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC) that it erred when it decided to issue warning letters to a number of workers, and to suspend another worker for a period of fourteen (14) days. The DHBC took the decision after workers did not agree to work between the hours of 10.00pm and 6.00am.

In April this year, the Management sought the Union’s agreement for workers in the Maintenance Department to work between the hours of 10.00pm and 6.00am in the conduct

of maintenance works. Presently, the Collective Labour Agreement (CLA) provides for workers to work during daytime hours. In the past, occassionally workers have undertaken nighttime tasks for special operations. Such work had been voluntary, and certain payments were provided to the workers. In this instance, the DHBC sought to institionalise the arrangement.

Following the DHBC’s proposal, the workers agreed to undertake a one-month trial to determine whether

the arrangem e n t w a s feasible.

After the trial period ended, workers explained to the Union that it w a s difficult to work during the night time hours in the conduct of maintenance. They shared with GAWU that visiblity posed a serious safety and health problem. Additionally, they pointed out that undertaking welding tasks during the night time hours was particuarly difficult.

They highlighted that the heat from the operations and the coid night air was harmful to their health. Workers also indicated that drivers, at times, did not see them working during the night time hours, and the possiblity of accidents arose on a few occasions.

As a result, when the GAWU and

the DHBC engaged following the trial period, the Union informed the Management that the workers were not in favour of the proposed arrangement.

An alternative solution was also proposed by the Union, and this was greeted with some scepticism by the DHBC. The GAWU also informed the DHBC at the meeting that it understood that some workers were not opposed to undertaking work between the 10.00pm to 6.00am period, and if those workers were in agreement, the Union had no difficulty in the workers undertaking tasks. It was agreed at the meeting’s conclusion, that workers who volunteered to work during the evening hours would be rostered.

Following that meeting, the DHBC informed all maintenance workers they would be required to work during the evening hours. Furthermore the Management underlined that workers who did not turn out would be disciplined. This upset the workers, given the Union and the Management engagement. Having gotten wind of thise development, the GAWU wrote the DHBC, cautioning its approach.

The Union pointed out that to seek to discipline workers without any basis was improper and highly prejudical.

Our concerns, it appears, fell on deaf

ears as, subsequently, several workers who did not volunteer were issued with warning letters. The Union, again in writing, outlined its concerns and urged the DHBC to withdraw the letters. Our correspondence did not elicit an acknowledgement from the DHBC. As the Union contemplated its next steps, a worker was suspended without pay for 14 days, as Management claimed he did not work during the evening hours. The Union then sought the intervention of the Ministry of Labour with a view to addressing the matter.

At a meeting, the Ministry, having listened to both parties, supported the Union’s contention. The Ministry agreed that it was improper for the DHBC to warn and supend employees when they did not breach their contractual obligations. As a result, the Ministry impressed upon the DHBC to withdraw all warning letters and to pay the worker who was suspended for the days he was off.

In moving forward, the Ministry has agreed to work with the Union and the Management to see what arrangement could be arrived at in addressing work during the evening hours.

Page 14

Combat - April-June, 2022

GuySuCo statement clearly intended to...

At the left the Albion sugar estate factory and at the right the Blairmont sugar estate factory. These two (2) estates, along with Uitvlugt estate, comprise the three (3) currently operable estates of the GuySuCo. During the 2022 first crop, the Uitvlugt factory was inoperable owing to a major factory breakdown, thus thwarting the crop’s commencement. Though Albion and Blairmont both operated, they failed to realise their targets. GuySuCo blamed flooding in 2021 for the poor production. However, prior to the commencement of the crop, the sugar company evaluated the cane field and determined their sugar production. Expectedly, the evaluation of the fields would provide a relatively accurate picture. This was not the case, and though GuySuCo reaped immature second crop canes, it still fell short of its production target. GAWU contends the Management of the sugar company is in dire need of strengthening.

Continued from page sixteen (16) 2022 Production Levels The Corporation lamented the impact of 2021 floods and failure of the gear at Uitvlugt Estate as the reasons for its 2022 first crop production, which yielded a historical low of just over 13,000 tonnes sugar. GuySuCo asserted “…that these scientific facts were lost on the Sugar Unions…”.

From this pronouncement, it appears, that either the Corporation is out at sea on its operations, or it seeks to hoodwink and mislead the nation.

In determining its production target, the Corporation would evaluate the quantity and quality of canes within each field it intends to harvest. These evaluations are done on a field-by-field basis, and aggregated to estates and industry targets before harvesting commences. Therefore, it is reasonable to expect that the many ‘sugar professionals and experts’ in the Corporation must have recognized the condition of fields and formulated an estimate that is realistic and attainable for 1st crop 2022. The reality is the targets set by the ‘sugar professionals and experts’ were not achieved. To compensate for the inaccurate estimate, the Corporation resorted to harvesting of immature canes slated for second crop 2022 harvest at Albion and Blairmont Estates.

In relation to Uitvlugt Estate, the ‘sugar professionals and experts’ were at work again. We learnt that they were well aware of the mill turbine gear condition and damage sustained in the latter part of 2021.

The ‘sugar professionals and experts’ advised on welding repairs against procurement of a new gear to make the unit operable for first crop 2022.

The nation is aware of the fiasco that ensued where the Estate had to abandon its first crop because the welded and locally fabricated gear failed. If

a new gear was ordered when the damage was observed, the aborted first crop, or at least part of it, could have been salvaged.

Industry’s Challenges GuySuCo continues to highlight tillage as a major obstacle in improving production, and contends that aged machines are unable to complete tasks. According to the statement, the machines were “fully depreciated” and “aged 8 – 12 years”. GuySuCo further argues that the aged machines contributed to ratooned canes as old as 12 years. Interestingly, despite the age of the machines, average cane yield data was improving before a sudden precipitous decline emerged.

The data, in our view, demonstrates that tillage is not the only challenge. But, in our view, more serious agronomic issues need to be addressed in addition to tillage.

We ask whether the ‘professionals’ are giving these issues the attention they require.

Reduction in Cultivation Recently, the GAWU has learnt the industry has taken a decision to temporarily abandon lands which have canes higher than five (5) years old.

We have learnt that, at Albion, some 3,080 hectares equivalent to approximately one-third of the cultivation was abandoned. At Blairmont, it is said a similar proportion was also abandoned. It is said these major decisions affecting production and productivity were taken without the consent or knowledge of the Board of Directors. Such decisions have major implications for production and productivity, but it is unclear what factor/s informed the decision-making. With GuySuCo’s own admission of the problems associated with tillage, it will be interesting to know what plans the Company has to bring

those abandoned lands back into the cultivation, failing which these estates will permanently have a significant amount of lands unavailable for cane cultivation, We learnt that the decision to abandon cane fields came against the background of lower cane productivity. Again, the data we obtained does not support this contention. Data obtained for the recently concluded 2022 first crop indicated that fifth ratoon and older canes were yielding 34 tonnes cane per hectare (tch) while 4th ratoon canes are yielding 32 tch. With such yields, it is logical for anyone to question the rationale of abandonment. Additionally, we understand that the field abandonment programme has taken place in a haphazard manner. Usually, when fields are abandoned, they are flooded. This assists in stemming the proliferation of weeds and grass as well as preventing an upsurge in rodents.

We have recently learnt that estates are confronting a major upsurge in rodents, which are known to inflict significant damage on young canes.

A source has informed GAWU that it caused the Corporation not too long ago to approve an emergency purchase of rodenticide to combat the situation.

Conclusion Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo sounded the need for the strengthening of the GuySuCo management some months ago. Given recent events and outcomes from guidance emanating from the ‘sugar professionals and experts’; we believe there is an immediate need to strengthen management. The industry desperately needs requisite know-how and skills.

GAWU’s examination of the statement reveals several troubling issues which the GuySuCo has not ad-

dressed. For us, maybe it is that the GuySuCo is incapable of recognizing these problems, or deliberately places them on sidelines while it focuses on the so-called ‘big idea’. It seems as well those apparently sharing different viewpoints are treated with disdain being labelled the ‘vocal minority’, the ‘sugar charlatans’, and the ‘armchair prognosticators’. Though we are unaware to whom the Corporation refers, we believe this posture

will not be helpful to the industry.

Our Union remains a vested stakeholder, interested in the success of the sugar industry. We are heartened by the commitment of President Irfaan Ali, who at the Enmore Martyrs observances pledged to work alongside the GAWU and others to return the sugar industry to viability. We remain committed to such engagements and believe collaboration can have a positive impact.

Factory visits During the out-of-crop period, union officials visited the various sugar factories to engage workers and to address issues of concern. Below are scenes from our visits at the Albion and Blairmont factories

Page 15

Combat - April-June, 2022

New union branch committees elected

In keeping with the Union’s Constitution, annual branch conferences were conducted as several union branches in recent weeks. The objective of the conference is to review the work of the branch since the last conference, and to elect a new branch committee. The conference which is attended by workers within the branch’s aupicies, is addressed by a union official who would, in reviewing the branch’s activities, consider new challenges and objectives. Union branches play an important role at each workplace, and allow for workers’ matters to be discussed at the local level. They also facilitate sharing of information between the Union’s Executives and the workers generally. GAWU plays serious attention to the functioning of branches in an effort to ensure that workers are involved in issues, and are aware of developments taking place.

Albion GAWU Branch Uitvlugt GAWU Branch

Chairman: Hernie Park Vice Chairman: Stephen Indardat Secretary: Imran Alimohamed Assistant Secretary: Chandranauth Singh Committee members: Vishwanauth Ramcharitar, Victor McKenzie, Orison Walcott, Jagdat Ramsingh, Deryck Hector, Nazir Hussein, Annette Stanley, Shera Moore, Jacob Indardat, Kheriappha Moonsammy, and Roopnarine Mahadeo

SILWFC GAWU Branch Chairman: Amla Persaud Vice Chairman: Cheryl Sahadeo Secretary: Raywattie Persaud Assistant Secretary: Mitra Persaud Committee members: Chetam Singh, Deonarine Geer and Bernadette Anderson

Chairman: Lochan Khandai Vice Chairman: Rajesh Singh Secretary: Harinarine Sookdeo Assistant Secretary: Salim Khan Committee members: Oudai Domodar, Alita Johnson, Abiola Morrison, Rajnarine Persaud, Gloria Braithwaite, Jahmohan Deosarran, Andrew Longe, Seecharran Ram, and Regina McDonald

Demerara Harbour Bridge GAWU Branch

NPC GAWU Branch

Blairmont GAWU Branch

Chairman: Julius Nurse Vice Chairman: Lilchand Chatterpaul Secretary: Yudhistirnauth Persaud Assistant Secretary: Rohan Hilton Committee members: Sookram Sugrim, Collin Fraser, B. Bickram, Dindial Hemraj, Anatacie Paul, Malcolm Jacque, H. Persaud

How to calculate the new National Minimum wage The new National Minimum Wage (NMW) was implemented on July 01, 2022. Some workers have shared difficulties they have in understanding the new rates. We shall attempt to bring clarity to their concerns below:

NMW monthly = $60,147

Chairman: Michael Blackman Vice Chairman: Dick Squires Secretary: Christina Comacho Assistant Secretary: Suresh Wellaidum Committee members: Mark Fingal, Oswald Holder, and Marisa Deane

To get the weekly NMW rate we first have to multiply $60,147 monthly X 12 months per year = $721,764 yearly then divide $721,764 ÷ 52 weeks per year = $13,880 weekly

DDL GAWU Branch Chairman: Lucretia Ann Cupidore Vice Chairman: Neeta Manohar Secretary: Shawn Livan Assistant Secretary: Narine Sookram Committee members: Vagnos Brock, Gavin Johnson, Calvin Bernard, Gomattie Naipaul, Vishnu Persaud, Lloyd Cummings, and Shunett Kingston

To get the hourly NMW rate divide as follows Chairman: Towana Mars Vice Chairman: Ganesh Raghubir Secretary: Aspalta Roberts Assistant Secretary: Willie Rodrigues Committee members: Shivdatt Hansraj, Keon Reid, Daniel Dick, Germine Whartson, and Marvin Bradford

$13,880 ÷ 40 hour per week = $347 hourly For work beyond 40 hours weekly, workers must receive overtime payment.

Be informed, be educated, end exploitation at work!

GAWU says:

GuySuCo statement clearly intended to mislead and deceive

The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) takes note of the press statement from Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc (GuySuCo) titled “GUYSUCO SETS THE RECORDS STRAIGHT”.

The elaborate statement from the state-dependent Corporation appeared as a center-spread full-coloured advertisement in the (Sunday) July 10, 2022, editions of the Guyana Chronicle, Guyana Times, and Stabroek News. The Corporation’s attempt to give prominence to its statement must have come at some costs, quite possibly at the expense of other important obligations.

In our examination of the statement, we noticed that the Union and its representative on GuySuCo’s Board received special attention in relation to procurement and decision-making. Who knows what were the GuySuCo’s motivation/s? Our Union has full confidence that any decision made by its member will result in benefit to Guyanese and Guyana. In addition, the Union has always been forthright and honest in its assessment of the sugar company’s performance and leadership, and will continue to do so without fear or favour.

Procurement of Articulated Tractors A substantial section of GuySuCo’s missive focused on procurement of articulated tractors to undertake mechanical tillage operations and the touted impact those tractors would have on low production and productivity levels. The statement pointed out that the Union’s representative “played a leading role” in the procurement of tractors. This statement, in our view, is a desperate attempt to create a perception that the Union’s representative was directly involved in purchase of articulated tractors, which is now subjected to intense debates. In trying to absolve itself from the current debates, the Corporation deliberately chooses to omit other pertinent facts associated with GuySuCo’s Procurement Committee recommendations.

We are aware that deliberations of the Corporation’s Procurement Committee remain confidential, and therefore, to disclose content of those discussions which came to our hand would be unethical and improper. Nonetheless, we understand that the Committee, comprising several board mem-

bers, extensively and intensively debated purchase of articulated tractors. These debates eventuated on a course of action that advised on purchase of a small quantity of tractors against a larger quantity recommended by the Executive Management. The Committee’s intent, from what we gather, is to allow the type of tractors to be evaluated within Guyana’s context before making further decisions on purchase. It appears to us that the Procurement Committee was prudent in its decision-making Absence of Tillage The Corporation bemoaned an absence of tillage arising from the absence of a suitable fleet of tillage tractors. But the data supplied by the GuySuCo seems to paint a different narrative. For instance: • At Albion, THE TILLAGE TRACTOR FLEET WAS AVAILABLE 72.8% OF THE 46 AVAILABLE OPPORTUNITY DAYS during the 2021 second crop • BUT THE FLEET WAS ONLY UTILIZED 37.1% OF THE TIME • It informs that THE FLEET, THOUGH AVAILABLE, WAS NOT OPERABLE FOR SUBSTANTIAL PERIODS OF TIME • Notwithstanding the operational deficit, THE ESTATE REALISED 78.4% OF ITS TILLAGE TARGET • Had utilization been improved, IT IS FAIR TO CONCLUDE THAT THE TILLAGE TARGET COULD HAVEN BEEN REALISED AND SURPASSED Looking at the data from the other estates, the same yardstick could be utilized. It then begs the question as to whether the adequacy of tillage tractors is really the sole issue for poor production.

Continued on page fourteen (14)

Combat is a publication of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) 59 High Street and Wights Lane, Kingston, Georgetown, Guyana Tel: (592) 227-2091/2, 225-5321, 223-6523 Email: info@gawugy.com Website: www.gawugy.com