Labour Day 2025: 60,000 jobs gained under PPP/C Govt, reversal of APNU/AFC losses – VP

…highlights significant strides to boost workforce

…still long way to go – PM Phillips

As Guyana commemorates Labour Day 2025, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has reminded that May 1 should not only be a time for celebration, but a moment of reflection on the progress made in Guyana’s labour sector under the current Administration.
During his weekly press conference on Thursday, VP Jagdeo highlighted that in excess of 60,000 more people were working today compared to when the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) took office, a testament to the Government’s commitment to job creation and economic revitalisation.
“The dignity of work is so important to people. If they don’t have work, it changes their entire outlook on life,” Jagdeo stated.
He contrasted this with the previous Administration’s record, noting that during the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) five-year tenure, thousands of jobs were lost across major sectors, including sugar, bauxite, gold mining, and forestry. Jagdeo pointed out that during that period, business slowed and cash flow diminished, leading to widespread unemployment.
The Vice President further outlined key programmes such as the part-time job initiative, which currently supports more than 14,000 persons – primarily women – with flexible employment. He also highlighted the reinstatement of Community Support Officers (CSOs) in Amerindian communities, with nearly 3000 now employed, reversing job cuts made under the previous Administration.
Jagdeo linked job creation with upskilling. Over 30,000 scholarships have been awarded under the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) programme, with an additional 20,000 trained through Women’s Innovation and Investment Network (WIIN) and the Board of Industrial Training (BIT). These efforts aim to boost the quality and earning potential of the workforce.
He noted that under the APNU/AFC, only 1000 scholarships were awarded, “mainly for friends and family”.
VP Jagdeo also touted the restoration and strengthening of collective bargaining, noting that multi-year agreements were signed with the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), the Guyana Teachers’ Union, and the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU).
Significant tax relief measures were implemented, including a $50,000 monthly tax-free allowance on overtime; an additional $50,000 exemption for income earned from a second job; tax thresholds were raised, with allowances for dependants, and restoration of the Joint Services’ one-month tax-free bonus, at a cost of nearly $2 billion.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister, Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillips also issued a message commemorating Labour Day, echoing a tone of pride and gratitude for Guyana’s workers, while acknowledging that significant challenges remain.
“Across every region of Guyana, it is the workers—the builders, teachers, nurses, miners, farmers, and countless others – who carry us forward with steady resolve and unshakable pride,” PM Phillips stated.
He reflected on the legacy of pioneers like Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, who laid the foundation for fair labour practices in Guyana, and reminded citizens that their struggles paved the way for present-day workers’ rights.
“Labour Day reminds us that progress is earned through effort and unity. We owe a debt to those who came before us…The legacy of these stalwarts of justice lives on in every worker who speaks up, who contributes, and who believes in a better tomorrow,” he said.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged that while much has been done to improve job opportunities, safe working conditions and fair wages, along with inclusive opportunities, must remain top priorities. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to addressing these concerns through sustained investment in training, worker protections, and labour representation.
“As we honour that legacy today, we must also recognise that our task is not yet done. Our labour force still faces challenges that require attention and action – ensuring safe conditions, decent pay, and equal opportunity for all. That is why our Government continues to invest in our workers – through training, stronger protections, and a Ministry of Labour that listens and acts. But while true progress takes policy, it is also built on people working together, listening to each other, respecting differences, and believing in the common good,” the PM added.
“In unity, there is strength. In respect, there is peace. And in work, there is dignity,” Phillips declared, calling for continued national solidarity.