…NAACIE contends power company can afford to pay increases
THE Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) said in press release yesterday that staffers, particularly from its Networks (Transmission & Distribution) and Generation Departments took industrial action from 07:00 hours yesterday.
And this was without any notice from the National Association of Agricultural Clerical and Industrial Employees (NAACIE), the union representing the workers.
GPL and NAACIE have been meeting over the past weeks on increases in salaries and allowances for 2010, but while some progress has been made, no agreement has been reached.

NAACIE is fully aware of the procedure which has to be followed leading to industrial action in an essential service.
The release said persons involved in this illegal action are aware of the options available to GPL.

Action has been taken to limit the disruption to GPL’s service and consumers will be kept abreast of developments.

All sectors of the Guyana Power & Light Inc. were affected by a protest strike yesterday.
The union has informed the management of GPL of its fullest support for the workers on strike, and reminded them (the GPL management) of the indication of frustration by the negotiation team during the meetings held to discuss monetary increases.

NAACIE says it is aware of the company’s ability to pay the increase asked for in this year’s proposal sent by the union, since the GPL would have made a $2B profit for 2009 compared to the $2B loss declared in 2008, when they agreed to pay 6% across the board in December 2009.

NAACIE said the power company is also directly employing 200 fewer workers and has promised to pay an increase for the fewer workers based on a new job evaluation. The promised payment has not been made, NAACIE said.

The union contends that while the company is refusing to offer increases, it is continuing to make huge profits.