GTUC comes out in support of trade unions denied the right to collective bargaining

The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) says that it reiterates its support for all trade unions who are denied the constitutionally protected right to engage in collective bargaining on their memberships’ behalf.

The GTUC in a press release said it noted the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) yesterday issued an ultimatum to the Government of Guyana to come to the table to commence negotiating a new collective labour agreement consistent with Government’s obligation under Section 23(1) of the Trade Union Recognition Act. The GTUC said it acknowledges that the existing strike by the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) is a result of the Government’s contempt for the Rule of Law, specifically adumbrated in Article 147 of the Constitution of Guyana, Trade Union Recognition and the Grievances Procedures enshrined in the Collective Labour Agreement between the parties.

GTUC also said that while it noted and welcomed the conservatory orders issued by the High Court yesterday, putting a temporary halt on Government’s act of putting its ‘big boots’ on workers’ throats, “the battle to protect and defend workers’ rights and gains made by our predecessors is not over…This requires,” GTUC says, “intensifying the struggle and sending a strong message to the government with the presence of every teacher, worker and citizen on the picket line. Freedom is not free; it requires eternal vigilance.”

GTUC’s release noted that while it is opportune to remember that every independent trade union that operates within the traditional public service, teaching service, semi-autonomous and autonomous agencies are all affected by the Government’s denial of the right to collective bargaining, the GTU has justifiably led the way in challenging this lawlessness and contempt for sections of the working class. “Four years to come to the bargaining table is four years too long, and represents a delay and denial of justice,” GTUC said.

“The hostile industrial relations environment being fostered by the Government is inimical to the peace, harmony and overall welfare of the working class which GTUC shall not countenance. To this end GTUC has been engaging affiliates and non-affiliated unions, locally and externally, to lend their voices to a just cause and stand ready for intensification of industrial action if the government fails to let good sense prevail,” the GTUC said.