By Mark DaCosta- In a poignant display of deceit and disregard for the welfare of teachers, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has once again exposed its true colours, leaving educators with no recourse but to resume their strike. Merely eight days after President Irfaan Ali’s grandiose promises of unwavering support for workers on Labour Day, teachers find themselves compelled to take drastic action due to the callous treatment they continue to endure under the PPP regime. Teachers are set to resume strike action on Thursday May 8.
Since the conclusion of the arduous 29-day strike, the PPP government has failed to take any substantial steps to address the genuine concerns of teachers. Despite stark warnings issued by Mark Lyte, President of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU), on Labour Day regarding the imminent resumption of strike action, the PPP administration has remained conspicuously apathetic to the demands of educators.
“The government’s refusal to engage in Collective bargaining is a breach of our Labour Laws and an insult to the integrity of all teachers in Guyana,” remarked Dr. Lyte, echoing the sentiments of countless educators who feel marginalised and undervalued by the PPP authorities.
The decision to recommence strike action comes hot on the heels of a disconcerting incident at the recent PPP Congress, where party leaders callously ridiculed teachers and their previous strike action through a tasteless skit. The insensitive nature of the skit drew widespread condemnation from various quarters, including the political opposition and GTU president.
“The skit is a clear demonstration that the PPP is anti-workers (teachers), uncaring and out of touch with the many challenges faced by our teachers every day,” remarked the opposition leader, expressing dismay at the lack of empathy exhibited by the ruling party towards the plight of educators.
Through its reprehensible actions, the PPP has laid bare its deceitful, uncaring, and callous nature, demonstrating a blatant disregard for the dedicated educators who play an indispensable role in shaping the future of our nation.
Just days ago, in his Labour Day statement, President Ali shamelessly proclaimed his government’s commitment to improving the lives of workers, including teachers. However, his empty rhetoric stands in stark contrast to the harsh reality faced by educators and other workers who continue to grapple with meagre salaries and substandard working conditions.
“The repeated salary impositions are a clear indication that the Government is unwilling to engage the GTU meaningfully,” lamented Dr. Lyte, underscoring the government’s persistent reluctance to address the legitimate grievances of teachers or engage in collective bargaining as required by Guyana’s constitution.
The resumption of strike action is evidently not a decision taken lightly but is a necessary step in the fight for justice and fair treatment. As affirmed by the court, the demands of teachers are legitimate and merit urgent attention from the authorities.
Teachers are striking to demand fair wages, improved working conditions, and respect for collective bargaining agreements. These educators are the backbone of our education system, and their demands deserve to be met with sincerity and urgency by the PPP government.
As our nation’s teachers once again take to the streets in protest, it is imperative that the government listens to their voices and takes concrete actions to address their concerns. The future of our education system and the well-being of our educators depend on it.
In the face of deceit and indifference by the PPP, teachers stand united in their struggle for justice and dignity. It is time for the PPP government to heed their calls and honour its obligations to the hardworking educators who tirelessly serve our nation.
