Dear Editor,
DURING the final consultation on the local content legislation, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) was heartened to learn that many of our concerns were addressed by the government. In recent times, our union has outlined the dominance of foreign labour in the sector to the detriment of Guyanese. On several occasions we have drawn to the public’s attention that Guyanese workers, though qualified and capable, were sidelined and made to undertake roles for which they were more than qualified. We considered this an affront to our Guyanese working people who over the years would have amassed considerable skill and experience. We noted that such attitudes hark back to a bygone period, and we could not condone such actions.

The GAWU was, therefore, pleased that the government, through the proposed legislation, was seeking to correct this malady. The legislation we noted has addressed Guyanese participation not only at the ownership level but has gone deeper to speak to managerial and employment. This requirement alongside requirements to improve Guyanese participation in the coming years will undoubtedly allow our workers to have a fair chance to be able to benefit from the sector and contribute to our development.

We have also highlighted massive disparities in pay and other conditions of work between foreigners and locals. Indeed, it was saddening to learn that our Guyanese were receiving several times less than their foreign counterparts though they work alongside each other undertaking practically the same tasks. Apart from variations in pay, we have reported that foreigners are enjoying other conditions which Guyanese are denied without any rhyme or reason. For our union, we were happy to learn that the legislation will impose requirements that foreigners and locals receive equal benefits. This, of course, is an extension of our Prevention of Discrimination Act and bodes well for our Guyanese.

During previous consultative exercises, our union had expressed these concerns. We charged that Guyanese had every right to benefit from the sector and we see the local content legislation as a pivotal step in this direction. With the expected implementation of the legislation and a shifting to tasks to Guyanese enterprises we expect to see our workers being treated fairly and equitably. At this time, we are eager to fully review the legislation and to have a greater understanding of the enforcement mechanism. This, we recognise, will give the legislation its true meaning and bring about the intended benefits.

Though we recognise the legislation will address some concerns, it does not completely eliminate the challenges workers in the sector are facing. Remuneration and other conditions of work remain a foremost concern of workers in the sector.

Yours sincerely,
Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union