IN a display of its consultative approach to governance, the Government of Guyana, led by Prime Minister Brigadier Mark Phillips and Senior Finance Minister Dr. Ashni K. Singh, engaged in a series of budget consultations with various trade unions from across the country.

The consultations took place at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) on Friday and provided an opportunity for the unions to voice their concerns and discuss matters of interest, especially those related to the National Budget.

The government delegation included Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Gail Teixeira, Minister of Public Service Sonia Parag, Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony, Minister of Education Priya Manickchand, Advisor to the Minister of Public Service Jennifer Westford, Permanent Secretaries of the Ministry of Agriculture and Labour Delma Nedd and Mae Thomas, respectively, Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture Mandanlall Ramraj, and Chief Labour Officer Dhaneshwar Deonarine.

Trade unions affiliated with both the Federation of Independent Trade Unions (FITUG) and the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), as well as the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), participated in the consultations. Specific unions included the Guyana Agricultural & General Workers Union (GAWU), National Association of Agricultural, Commercial & Industrial Employees (NAACIE), Clerical & Commercial Workers Union (CCWU), Guyana Labour Union (GLU), Guyana Teachers Union (GTU), Guyana Local Government Officers Union (GLGOU), and General Workers Union (GWU).

Prime Minister Phillips, in his opening remarks, extended a warm welcome to the union representatives and expressed the government’s eagerness to receive suggestions, comments, and input from the trade unions. He emphasised the government’s commitment to using this valuable feedback to inform policies for crafting Budget 2024. Prime Minister Phillips also thanked the unions for their cooperation and dedication to engaging with the government on behalf of the workers they represent.

Dr. Singh reiterated the government’s dedication to improving the lives of the working people of Guyana. He highlighted various initiatives already implemented by the government since taking office and emphasised its continued commitment to engaging with unions and stakeholders as the country undergoes rapid transformation. Dr. Singh stressed the government’s intention to reach every citizen directly, ensuring government decisions are made with the direct input of the people and not solely through representative organizations.

“We have increased job opportunities, invested heavily in the macroeconomy, and continue to ensure macroeconomic stability,” Dr. Singh affirmed. He also noted that all government decisions are made with a focus on striking a balance between addressing immediate needs and planning for the future.

Following the consultations, Minister Singh referenced President Irfaan Ali’s strong commitment to ongoing engagement with trade unions and all stakeholders. These consultations serve as a testament to the government’s commitment to fostering collaboration and dialogue in shaping the nation’s policies and budgets.