FITUG aspires to be…
THE FEDERATION of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) is pledging to do all in its power and capabilities to serve its thousands of members more responsibly, constructively and aggressively in 2011. Another element of FITUG’s national New Year’s Resolution is to take steps to create and promote areas of solidarity and united action with all organisations who represent working-class real interests in Guyana.
FITUG stands prepared, for example, to renew working acquaintances with the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) in so far as any union or any issue attracts unfair practices from any employer or any branch of Government.
One year ago, we noted that there are some employers and some other authorities who seem to want to deem trade unions “irrelevant” or unnecessary. Indeed, at the highest levels, negotiations and collective bargaining are made redundant and decisions are being imposed with more frequency.
FITUG, however, reminds all anti-union forces that enshrined in the current Constitution of Guyana are certain rights, freedom and protection which guarantee civil liberty to work for fair reward. Citizens have the right to assemble and to form or join associations.
There is protection from slavery and forced labour. And our Constitution specifically upholds workers’ right to “demonstrate peacefully and to associate with other persons and IN PARTICULAR TO FORM OR BELONG TO POLITICAL PARTIES, TRADE UNIONS OR OTHER ASSOCIATIONS” FOR THE PROTECTION OF THEIR INTERESTS.
Who would fly in the face of our Supreme Law? Who would wish trade unions away? FITUG resolves to guard ferociously against even those who would use anti-industrial and illegal subterfuge and tactics to undermine the effectiveness of responsible bona fide unions.
We also share the sentiments of GAWU, our largest affiliate, in asking employers to make their seasonal good wishes more TANGIBLE for their workers. Let 2011 usher in goodwill made manifest by better agreements, better pay and conditions. That’s because we also share the view that good worker morale makes for more production and all-round productivity.
FITUG wishes its thousands of members, and indeed all workers of Guyana, a better year in 2011 than 2010 turned out to be. May your labour be truly rewarded as you toil for your families, your communities and nation. FITUG also pledges to influence more of Guyana’s workers to become organized and unionized.

In 2011, unity must indeed be strength. Have a happy, productive, peaceful and healthy NEW YEAR.