NEARLY 70 employers, employees, and toshaos gathered in Mabaruma, Region One, for a one-day seminar last week, which was designed to strengthen awareness of workplace legislation and promote adherence to Guyana’s labour laws.

Held at the Regional Democratic Council’s (RDC) boardroom, the seminar aimed to enhance understanding of critical labour regulations among local businesses and encourage a culture of compliance.

The Ministry of Labour noted that attendees covered a wide range of topics, including the national minimum wage, probationary periods, paid leave, workplace safety standards, fundamentals of cooperative and friendly societies, overtime payments, severance pay, termination procedures, inspections and record-keeping requirements, and reporting of child labour incidents.

The event was led by the Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, who, in his opening remarks, underscored the seminar’s purpose of empowering both workers and employers with essential knowledge to navigate workplace challenges.

The minister emphasised the government’s commitment to improving public access to vital services that support sustainable livelihoods and uphold workers’ rights.

“The Government of Guyana remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of workers across our nation. No entity is exempt from the law; we maintain equal standards for both private and public sectors,” Minister Hamilton said.
Focusing on safety, the minister highlighted the importance of adhering to the Occupational Safety and Health Act, Chapter 99:06, and expressed hope that a shift toward a stronger safety culture will ensure all employees can return home safely each day.

He encouraged ongoing collaboration with the ministry to foster this vision through continued training and awareness programmes.

Minister Hamilton also urged participants to take advantage of skills training opportunities offered through the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), which provides workers with the knowledge and capabilities to meet the demands of Guyana’s evolving industries.

The seminar marked part of the ministry’s extensive engagements in 2024. Over 100 government ministries, agencies, and private sector organisations have participated in labour-focused training sessions this year.

Minister Hamilton was supported by His Worship, Mayor of Mabaruma, Trevi Leung, alongside Chief Labour Officer, Dhaneshwar Deonarine; Chief Co-operatives Development Officer, Janaknauth Panchu; Senior Occupational Safety and Health Officer, Darwin Bourne; Senior Labour Officer, Prandatt Basdeo, and Legal Officer, Janelle Thomas.