THE workers in the sugar belt can expect a four per cent increase in their remunerations, which will be finalised via an agreement that will be inked today.Asked to comment on the increase, Agriculture Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy highlighted that the increase comes at a time when labour forces in many other countries are dealing with pay cuts, layoffs and stagnated remuneration packages, as a result of prevailing economic challenges.
He said, “The industry is not in the best financial position, but GuySuCo, because of its commitment, has ensured that it gave an increase. At a time when industries around the world are encountering difficulties, industries in Guyana have strived to continue to offer salary and wage increases for our workers.”
The minister added that while the four per cent hike may seem like a minimal increase, but compared to the current global conditions, the offer of an increase is a commendable effort.
The increase follows the completion of negotiations with the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), among other stakeholders.