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By Mark DaCosta- In recent developments, the government of Guyana has once again opted for the unilateral imposition of a 6.5 percent salary increase on public servants, circumventing the process of collective bargaining with labour unions. According to Article 147 of the Guyana Constitution collective bargaining is a right for unionised workers. The recurrent practice of disregarding this basic right raises serious concerns about the rights and representation of workers in Guyana. Further, it highlights the contempt that the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) regime has for ordinary Guyanese.
The act of unilaterally determining wages/salary without engaging in meaningful negotiations with labour unions is not only lawless but it also undermines the fundamental principles of fairness and justice. Collective bargaining serves as a cornerstone in fostering a harmonious relationship between employers and employees. Collective bargaining ensures that decisions about wages/salaries and working conditions are made collaboratively, taking into account the perspectives of both parties.
One of the primary reasons why collective bargaining is indispensable lies in its ability to address the power imbalance between employers and individual workers. When a government or employer unilaterally dictates wages, it denies workers the opportunity to voice their concerns, preferences, and needs. Labour unions, as representative bodies, play a crucial role in leveling the playing field by providing a unified voice for workers. Through collective bargaining, unions can negotiate for fair wages, improved working conditions, and other benefits that contribute to the overall well-being of their members.
Moreover, the absence of collective bargaining can lead to a lack of transparency and accountability in decision-making processes related to wages. Unilateral actions may be influenced by various factors such as political considerations or budget constraints, potentially disregarding the actual needs and aspirations of the workforce. In contrast, collective bargaining encourages open dialogue and transparency, fostering a sense of trust and cooperation between employers and employees.
Furthermore, collective bargaining promotes social justice by ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are equitably distributed. In a society – such as Guyana – where income inequality is a pressing issue, allowing workers to collectively negotiate their wages helps prevent the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few. This not only contributes to a fairer distribution of resources, but also fosters a sense of social cohesion and stability.
It is essential for the PPP regime to recognise that labour unions are not adversaries but vital partners in the economic landscape. They serve as a mechanism to mediate conflicts, promote inclusivity, and contribute to the overall efficiency and productivity of the workforce. The adversarial relationship created by unilateral wage determinations inevitably leads to increased tension and dissatisfaction among employees, ultimately affecting productivity and the overall well-being of Guyana.
The recurring, unacceptable practice of imposing salary increases unilaterally by the PPP government is a cause for great concern. It undermines the principles of fairness, transparency, and social justice that are essential for a happy, productive, satisfied, and fairly-treated public service.
