Workers are minimised while the rich gets richer

Dear Editor,

I observed in the media complaints by Private Sector Commission (PSC) over what appears to be a snub by the CPSO. As i read the PSC’s missive I was reminded of what happens to the ants when the elephants fight.

While the Guyanese business sector cries afoul, i must admit Editor, I cannot, have any sympathy. Its not that I am not patriotic but both organisations are peas from the same pod. Whatever their stripe, members of those organisations, though presenting a noble front, have continually perpetuated exploitation against their workers. Editor, it is the workers of those who make up the private sector that gives them the profits they and their shareholders enjoy. Despite that contribution, their workers are often them treated with little respect and regard.

Right here in Guyana, the national minimum wage remains woefully poor. GAWU’s President on May Day said the wage was now $39000 after accounting for inflation. The PSC said it was supportive of an increase. Yet several months later the issue remains a work in progress. Had there been genuine support, in my view, then the PSC would have also added its voice to the call.

Editor it is a wake up call. Workers remain the lifeblood of business and the largest voting bloc in the country. Yet the workers are minimised while the rich gets richer.

Yours sincerely
Sonya Barakat