RUSAL disrespects Govt, bauxite union – Labour Minister

Social Protection Ministers Volda Lawrence and Keith Scott are of the view that the Russian Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI/RUSAL) has disrespected the Government of Guyana through its failure to attend a meeting to address pressing issues.

The Ministers on Wednesday held a meeting to address various issues, including workers’ matters with the company, some of which have been in the public domain since 2009. The meeting was scheduled for the Ministry’s Department of Labour on Brickdam, Georgetown. The Guyana Bauxite and General Workers Union (GB&GWU) and RUSAL have had issues pending following the dismissal and suspension of 57 workers several years back.
Minister with responsibility for Labour, Keith Scott, told media operatives that RUSAL’s failure to attend the meeting, shows a lack of respect for Guyana’s laws and for the Government. This is the first attempt to have both parties present at a meeting. Minister Scott said that the Labour Department has encouraged RUSAL to come to the table. The Minister further expressed that the Ministry’s main aim was to ensure that Guyana is given the respect due as a sovereign state and there should be no compromise whatsoever. Minister Scott reiterated that the Social Protection Ministry would see that workers’ interests come first.
GB&GWU’s representative, Lincoln Lewis noted that the Union was not surprised by RUSAL’s refusal to attend the meeting. Lewis said, “It is a matter challenging the sovereignty of this country.”
The Union’s representative noted one instance whereby workers had to burn down buildings and break equipment before their concerns were heard. The Union is prepared to collaborate with the Government and any other agency to ensure that RUSAL respects the laws of this land or an alternative has to be found, Lewis pointed out.
Minister Scott stated that the nation came first and RUSAL would have to give answers.
Additionally, the Labour Department has already sent letters about the local labour laws to RUSAL.