Labour Ministry recovers over $31M for workers in 2024
Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton (Delano Williams photo)
Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton (Delano Williams photo)

– amid expanding outreach and awareness efforts

The Ministry of Labour (MoL) has announced the recovery of $31,712,203 on behalf of employees across Guyana for the year 2024, bringing the total recouped over the past four years to over $200 million. This achievement underscores the Ministry’s dedication to protecting workers’ rights and holding employers accountable.

A 25 percent decline in complaints lodged with the Ministry in 2024 compared to 2023 reflects the success of the Ministry’s increased outreach efforts and educational seminars. These initiatives have raised awareness among workers and employers, ensuring greater compliance with labour laws.
To further enhance efficiency, the Ministry launched the “Labour Advice” mobile application in May 2024. The app provides a convenient platform for workers and employers to access information on their rights and file complaints. Since its launch, six percent of all complaints have been received through the app.

Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton highlighted that the majority of cases involve security services and companies, with 24 percent of complaints originating from the security sector. Many of these cases are resolved through court proceedings, showcasing the Ministry’s robust legal interventions.
The Ministry conducted over 3,000 inspections in 2024, surpassing its annual target by 15 percent and increasing inspection activities by 25 percent compared to 2023. These inspections impacted approximately 19,079 workers, ensuring compliance with labour standards across various industrial establishments.

Another milestone in 2024 was the countersigning of 34 Collective Labour Agreements (CLAs), a 50 percent increase from the 17 agreements signed in 2023. Key signatories included Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), and Guyana Power and Light Inc. These agreements reinforce partnerships between employers, employees, and the Ministry, fostering improved working conditions and relations.
The Ministry conducted 14 seminars in 2024, a 55 percent increase from 2023, engaging 538 businesses employing over 28,481 workers. These sessions were held across several regions, including Georgetown, Regions One, Five, Six, Seven, Nine, and Ten, providing participants with in-depth knowledge of their rights and responsibilities under labour laws.

Combatting child labour remains a priority for the Ministry. In 2024, awareness initiatives included visits to indigenous communities such as St. Monica, Wakapoa, and Mashabo in Region Two, and Aishalton and Moco Moco in Region Nine. Awareness walks were held in Georgetown and Port Kaituma, attracting over 1,000 participants, including students.
Additionally, 41 sensitization visits were conducted in schools, featuring interactive presentations on children’s rights, the value of education, and reporting mechanisms for child labour cases. The Ministry also organized 20 community outreaches in regions such as Orealla, Siparuta, and Itaballi, targeting employers, employees, and residents.

The Ministry’s continued commitment to protecting workers’ rights, improving workplace standards, and fostering awareness demonstrates its pivotal role in advancing Guyana’s labour environment. Minister Hamilton emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration between workers, employers, and the Ministry to ensure fair and equitable treatment for all.

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