THE Ministry of Labour recently hosted a pivotal seminar, which brought together stakeholders from the private security sector in a continued effort to strengthen awareness of labour legislation and address persistent challenges in the industry.

Chief Labour Officer (CLO) Dhaneshwar Deonarine, in brief remarks welcomed participants and thanked them for accepting the ministry’s invitation, stating “We are very pleased with your response. This session is not just about compliance — it’s about partnership and open dialogue.”

The CLO emphasised the importance of active participation and urged attendees to use the platform to seek clarifications, ask questions, and engage in meaningful discussions.

Additionally, he highlighted the ministry’s outreach efforts, sharing that since 2021, more than 1,400 businesses across Guyana have participated in similar seminars.

These engagements would have contributed to a notable reduction in labour-related complaints, down 25 per cent in 2024 compared to 2023. The CLO, however, pointed out that the security sector remains an area of concern, contributing to 25 per cent of all complaints received by the ministry, with only a marginal one per cent decline in the past year.

Deonarine stated: “This is why today’s engagement is so important. The security sector continues to generate a disproportionate number of complaints. Our goal is to work with you, not against you, to ensure better outcomes for both employers and employees.”

The Chief Labour Officer also highlighted that many issues reported to the ministry could be resolved internally. He used the opportunity to  encourage companies to utilise their human resource departments more effectively before escalating matters.

Further, he cautioned that persistent non-compliance could lead to further action, including referrals to oversight bodies such as the Ministry of Finance or the National Tender Board.

He clarified, “Let me be clear- we do not want to antagonise anyone. We want to collaborate. When workers understand their rights, and employers understand their responsibilities, the result is a more productive and fair workplace.”

The seminar forms part of the ministry’s efforts to promote decent work, foster industrial harmony, and improve labour relations within high-complaint sectors.

The Ministry of Labour remains committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure compliance and protection of the rights of workers across Guyana.