The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) is broadening its base to offer representation to employees in the oil sector, having examined information where their rights are being “trampled” on.
GAWU General Secretary Seepaul Narine
GAWU General Secretary Seepaul Narine indicated on Monday that this decision was taken following an incident, which was reported online, involving a reputable oil company and two of its workers.
Through a social media post, they were made aware that the two individuals lost their jobs after allegedly raising questions regarding their employment status. The Union said if the post was veracious, it would move to represent these workers.
“Apart from that incident, we saw too allegations raised about other infractions though no details were provided,” Narine said in the statement.
The representative body also shared concerns about the disregard shown for workers’ rights and assured that workers from any sector could seek assistance or advice.
“Having examined the information shared on social media, we cannot help but be concerned that workers’ rights seem to be trampled upon un-wantonly. The GAWU is prepared, at this time, to offer our assistance to those affected along with other workers employed in the oil and gas sector, or any sector for that matter, who are aggrieved or wish to seek advice regarding their rights at work,” the Union said.
According to GAWU, many workers in unorganised sectors are faced with difficulties when their employers are ‘unreasonable’ or are ‘unknowledgeable’ about the country’s laws on workers’ rights.
The missive further highlighted, “Our Union having considered this matter wishes to offer its assistance with a view to have those affected being treated fairly. We are hopeful that our offer would assist to bring justice to those workers who may have been wronged and have no one to turn to.”
Last year during the centennial anniversary of trade unionism in Guyana, it was recognised by Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) President Carvil Duncan that a large bracket of the working-class population remained unrepresented.
There are promises of job openings in the oil sector, from which hundreds of people can benefit. While specialised recruits are likely to be sourced overseas, a sizeable volume of jobs can be opened for Guyanese.
