GTUC so far has taken note that some consideration has been given to its contributions made in the preparation of the Budget.  At a preliminary glance, GTUC takes note of the increase in minimum wage, the promised appointment of the Public Service Appellate Tribunal, and the establishment of an Industrial Tribunal. The GTUC has continuously fought for the return of the State grants to itself and the Critchlow Labour College and these only happened after collateral damage where the Jagdeo and Ramotar Governments had to be put out of office. GTUC looks forward to the restoration of the Women Advisory Council’s grant in 2016.
GTUC’s proposal to the Minister of Finance for a $55, 000 minimum wage, though $50, 000 has been budgeted, expects forward movement as the Government commences collective bargaining with the public sector unions.
GTUC takes note of the absence of attention being given to the Cooperative sector in the Budget. This nation is reminded that the country is named the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and this was not done by accident but out of recognition and acknowledgement of the role the cooperative has played in this nation’s historical development. Cooperative is a pillar of our tri-sector economy and deserving attention must be given to it.
The attention paid to put systems in place to activate constitutional commissions is a commendable step in pursuit of good governance and GTUC expects these programmes to be implemented soonest.
Guyana is a nation of laws and Guyanese must return to a state where the rule of law takes precedence in pursuit of creating a just society.