The Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU), in a letter to the Guyana Teachers Union, expresses unwavering solidarity with teachers in their quest for fair treatment and just recognition of their invaluable contributions to society. In the letter, which appears on the GTU’s Facebook page, WITU states that together the parties must reinforce their resolve and amplify their demands until justice prevails.
The teachers are in a protracted struggle with the Government of Guyana to ensure respect for their constitutional right to collective bargaining through their Union. Article 147 of the Constitution of Guyana enshrines the right to join trade union of choice, the right to collective bargaining, and freedom to strike. A proposal for increase wages/salary and improved working condition was submitted to the Government in August 2020. To date, the Government has refused to engage the Union.
Read WITU’s entire letter below:-
Solidarity Message from Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) St. Maarten
Dear Colleagues,
The Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) stands in unwavering solidarity with our esteemed colleagues of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) in their righteous quest for fair treatment and just recognition of their invaluable contributions to society.
We are concerned that we have learned of the long negotiations between the GTU and the government, culminating in the regrettable need for industrial action. The dedication and resilience of the teachers in Guyana, who have taken to the streets in pursuit of their rights, are commendable and emblematic of the strength of our profession.
As fellow educators, we understand the gravity of the issues at hand and recognize the pivotal role teachers play in shaping future generations. The injustices faced by our colleagues in Guyana echo the challenges encountered by educators worldwide, and it is incumbent upon us to stand united in the face of adversity.
Let us amplify our voices in solidarity with the GTU, advocating for fair wages, and improved working conditions, and recognizing teachers’ indispensable role in society. Together, we must reinforce their resolve and amplify their demands until justice prevails.
In this crucial moment, let us reaffirm our commitment to solidarity and collective action. WITU pledges its full support to the GTU and extends our heartfelt solidarity to all teachers standing in solidarity across Guyana.
United we stand, in solidarity and strength.
In solidarity,
Stuart Johnson
President, WITU St. Maarten
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