Denying healthcare workers access to transportation is absurd – GPSU

…urges public transportation providers to implement systems to address concerns

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) has come out swinging at operators of public transportation for their discrimination against health workers, particularly nurses clad in their uniforms.
The Union said this action was absurd and called on the public transportation providers to put measures in place to address their concerns and not to deny the healthcare workers their right to transportation.
“The GPSU acknowledges the right of every individual or entity to ensure that anyone who is anticipated to be in close proximity observe certain health protocols and, is positive that healthcare workers observe all the necessary requirements before leaving their home or work. However, if there is a concern by the operators of public transport, the Union suggest that they implement appropriate systems considered practicable and, similar to those adopted by agencies. A dispenser with hand sanitiser is not too much to ask. However, to deny them access to the minibus is downright absurd, unlawful, completely unacceptable and should not be tolerated. As a licensed public transportation operator, there should be no discrimination and all passengers should be treated equally and any acts of discrimination should be dealt with by the law,” the Union said in a statement on Thursday.
The GPSU is also advising all healthcare workers to record the registration number of any public transportation vehicle that deny them their right to join the vehicle to be transported. This information should be forwarded to the GPSU so that adequate action could be taken.
The Union said it was offended by the attitude displayed by some operators of the public transportation system to the healthcare workers, particularly nurses. They called for the condemnation of the behaviour of the minibus drivers and/or conductors.
“COVID-19 has been declared by WHO/PAHO [World Health Organisation/Pan American Health Organisation] as a pandemic. This pandemic is so pervasive that almost every country is grappling with its devastating effect. In the frontline battling this contagion are our healthcare workers and other public servants who provide the backup logistical work for these healthcare systems.
“Our healthcare workers render patient care to those afflicted, and all assistance should be given to ensure that they arrive at work on time to relieve their tired and sometimes overworked colleagues, and to take home those who have just completed their shift. The service these workers provide is priceless and they should be commended and every effort should be made by the public to display appreciation for the work they do, to encourage and motivate them to make their lives comfortable,” the GPSU noted.
The Union said that minibuses serve as an integral part of the public transportation system in Guyana and workers depend on the minibuses to get to work on time and get home after a hard day/night providing health care.