MPI Special Project Unit issues to be resolved “soon” – Minister
While not venturing into details, Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson said that the issues affecting workers in the Special Project Unit would be resolved soon.
Workers of the Special Project Unit interacting with the media on mond during their protest
The Minister, when approached by Guyana Times on Wednesday, said that he was sure the matter would be cleared up soon. In fact, he said, he may be making a statement about that matter in Parliament today. Patterson did not go into further details.
On Monday, close to 100 workers employed under contract by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) in the Special Project Unit took to the streets, protesting what they said was downright ‘disadvantage’ and abuse of power by those in authority.
Their concerns surround their wages and salaries, and particularly their safety on the job. Of utmost concern for them is news that they will not be paid the announced 10 per cent increase for public servants.
The workers said they have been sitting silently and saying nothing since last December when they were denied the $50,000 across-the-board payment. According to the employees, while the work is great, the salary remains under $50,000.
The workers are hurting, saying that they are the ones who are called upon to complete tasks left unfinished by private contractors. One such project is the D’Urban Park site, which was left unfinished with millions of dollars already spent by the first contractor.
The workers said they hoped Government could reform the system to make it possible for them to have benefits, for themselves and family members.
