Happy Labour Day to all the hardworking men and women in Guyana! Today is a time to reflect on the contributions made by workers and trade unions toward improving the lives of working-class people and the struggles they have endured to gain their rights.
It is a time to honor Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, who fought for workers’ rights and is regarded as the father of trade unionism in Guyana. I’d like to recognize and appreciate the work of the men and women employed by the Georgetown Municipality and represented by the Guyana Local Government Officer Union (GLGOU) and the Guyana Labour Union (GLU). These employees provide various services to the community, I understand the challenges they face and the critical role they play in ensuring high-quality services for residents.
Trade unions have played a significant role in advocating for workers’ rights and improving safety and health in the workplace. Although we face current challenges at the council, we need to take unconventional steps to sustain our employment costs while providing efficient services to our citizens.
It is also important to remember that workers are vital to the economic, social, and political well-being of any nation. Every employee is valuable and plays a critical role in achieving the overall economic goals of the city and the country.
I am optimistic that we can achieve a paradigm shift in several areas, including payment of rates, implementing new revenue-earning avenues, and improving services, and working conditions.
As the Mayor of Georgetown, I also acknowledge the essential role of trade unions in the lives of employees, and I am committed to working with workers’ representatives to advance their rights and interests.
The Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown welcome the continued support of the trade union as we work together to restore the city’s beauty. Let’s embrace collectivism and promote collaboration instead of confrontation to advance the city’s progress in every area. Let’s continue to work together towards a brighter future, where every employee is appreciated and respected for their crucial role in our society.
