Dear Editor,
Now that a conversation has begun regarding the need for affirmative action to be undertaken at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), I believe that a careful look should also be taken at the Georgetown municipality to see whether there is employment equity there.
Just a casual look at that entity such as in the City Constabulary, Town Clerk’s, City Treasurer’s, City Engineer’s, Markets, Human Resource, Solid Waste and Public Health Departments indicates an urgent need for the bridging of inequalities in employment and pay and in addressing apparent past wrongs, harm and hindrances.
A good idea would be for the City Council to carry out an independent human resources audit to ascertain whether there was any bias with regard to race, creed or colour in the process of hiring. This audit should check to see whether there is any nepotism, favouritism, or cronyism in the hiring process; to see what is the justification in elevating of some persons on the salary scale, and it should review the application process to determine whether the best candidates were selected from those who applied.
The City Council collects property rates from citizens of every class, colour, and religion, why then doesn’t employment spread reflect the same diversity? The laws of Guyana are clear on protecting citizens from all forms of discrimination as fundamental human rights. Our labour laws, in particular, the Prevention of Discrimination Act, Chapter 99:09 (No 26 of 1997), provides for the elimination of discrimination in employment, training, recruitment, and membership of professional bodies.
There should also be an examination of the various contracts that are given out by the Council, not just for financial probity but to see whether any persons or groups are marginalised.
Perception is reality. If you are perceived to be something or to be doing something, you might as well be it or be doing it, because that’s the truth in people’s minds.
Best regards,
Deodarie Putulall
