– PM Phillips
IN a poignant message marking Labour Day, Prime Minister, Mark Phillips, emphasised the significance of the occasion as a time for acknowledging, respecting, and rejuvenating commitment to the labour force. Speaking from the heart, the Prime Minister underscored the invaluable contributions of workers across various sectors, highlighting their tireless dedication and resilience, particularly in the face of unprecedented challenges. As the nation paused to honour the collective efforts of its workforce, Prime Minister Phillips urged citizens to uphold the principles of fairness, equality, and dignity in the workplace. Emphasiing the importance of unity and solidarity, he called for a renewed commitment to creating environments that empower workers and promote their well-being.
See below the full statement issued by P𝐑𝐈𝐌𝐄 𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐁𝐑𝐈𝐆𝐀𝐃𝐈𝐄𝐑 (𝐑𝐄𝐓’𝐃) 𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐊 𝐏𝐇𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐈𝐏𝐒 𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐎𝐂𝐂𝐀𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐎𝐅 𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐃𝐀𝐘:
Esteemed citizens of Guyana,
Today, on Labour Day, we come together to pay homage to the industrious men and women whose efforts have shaped our nation’s story and continue to propel Guyana’s development and progression. This day holds great significance as we reflect on the trials, triumphs, and resilience of our labour force.
Labour Day traces its roots back to the labour movement that became known in Chicago, USA, during the 1800s. It was a period marked by the struggle for improved conditions, fair compensation, and the right to organise. These endeavours laid the groundwork for the global recognition of workers’ rights, a legacy we honour and uphold today.
In the 1930s, under the leadership of Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow and the British Guiana Labour Union (BGLU), Labour Day celebrations commenced in Guyana. In 1958, May 1 was officially designated a national holiday by then Minister of Labour, Janet Jagan. Since then, workers across our land have proudly marked this day, rallying for their rights.
Therefore, we must honour the legacy of heroes like Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, a stalwart labour leader who ardently pushed for workers’ rights that brought about this occasion and even spearheaded that historic inaugural parade. His vision laid the cornerstone for trade unionism in Guyana. Today, we pay homage to his memory and the countless others who advocated for fair wages, safe working conditions, and collective bargaining rights. Their sacrifices reverberate through time, reminding us of the power of unity and solidarity.
As your government, we prioritise the welfare of our workers. The re-established Ministry of Labour, under the PPP/C Administration, diligently addresses the concerns of our labour force. We focus on remuneration, rights, working conditions, and capacity building. Yet, our work remains ongoing. We vigilantly confront inequalities, discrimination, and barriers to equal opportunities.
On this Labour Day, we must renew our dedication to forging a brighter future for all. We acknowledge the sweat and toil of those who underpin our society—the farmers, educators, healthcare professionals, artisans, and more. Their dedication fuels our journey toward progress. We must ensure their contributions are duly acknowledged and rewarded.
Our strength lies in our collective unity. Regardless of our backgrounds or professions, we are united by our shared commitment to elevate Guyana. Through collaborative efforts, we can achieve remarkable feats. Let us cultivate a society that values and respects every individual, where opportunities abound and success is attainable for all.
As we commemorate Labour Day, may we stand shoulder to shoulder, honouring our labour heroes and envisioning a brighter tomorrow. May their legacy inspire us to build a Guyana where every worker’s contribution is celebrated and every aspiration finds fulfillment.
Happy Labour Day!
