Empowering Unity and Overcoming Challenges: Calls from the 5th Triennial Congress of the Guyana Trade Union Congress

By Michelle Joseph-  Guyana Trade Union Congress (GTUC) convened its 5th Triennial Congress from November 8th to 10th, 2023 at the Critchlow Labour college.

During the Business Sessions of the Congress on the third day, Ms. Coretta McDonald, the President of the GTUC and Member of Parliament, addressed significant issues and provided proposals regarding the challenges currently faced by unions in Guyana.

In her impassioned plea, she emphasised, “We can’t do it alone; we must put our hands and our hearts together.” Ms. McDonald drew attention to the pressing challenges confronting workers within their respective unions, including internal conflicts and insufficient support.

Emphasising the tenets of Trade Unionism set forth by its founding father, Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, she raised probing questions about the Guyana government’s hesitancy toward Collective Bargaining. “Why does the Government shy away from Collective Bargaining?” she queried, contending that the government is committed to a divide-and-rule strategy. Nevertheless, she asserted that this approach will not dissuade the unions from steadfastly representing workers without bias or trepidation.

Addressing recent announcements about a salary increase for teachers, Ms. McDonald noted that the benefits of the pay raise did not extend to all. Out of approximately 13,000 teachers, only 4,000 directly benefited from the recent wage hike.

Questioning the implementation of the ‘One Guyana’ mantra, she underscored its unjust application and insisted that every brother and sister should obtain its benefits. Invoking the union song’s sentiment, SOLIDARITY FOREVER! Ms. McDonald urged the unions not to retreat in the face of potential offense and to stand firm, ensuring the well-being of the masses.