REPRESENTATIVES of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Guyana have joined consultations on the modernisation of the country’s labour laws, bringing private-sector perspectives on compliance, women-owned businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and equality in employment.
The engagement forms part of the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning’s ongoing review of Guyana’s labour legislative framework as the country’s economy expands and workplace conditions evolve.
Discussions with the Women’s Chamber examined issues affecting private-sector compliance, entrepreneurship and the operations of women-owned businesses and SMEs. Stakeholders also considered ways of improving clarity in the legislation and reducing the potential for workplace disputes.
The consultations are intended to ensure that the revised framework addresses the realities faced by employers and employees while providing clearer guidance on rights, responsibilities and obligations in the workplace.
The Ministry has said the wider labour-law review is necessary to bring legislation developed under a different economic environment into line with Guyana’s changing workforce, the emergence of new sectors and evolving workplace realities.
The review is also examining areas where existing legislation may require amendment, harmonisation or repeal. Recent consultations have involved government, legal and international labour stakeholders, including the International Labour Organization (ILO), with discussions covering legislative drafting, labour relations, dispute resolution and alignment with relevant ILO conventions and CARICOM standards.
Guyana’s existing labour framework covers a range of areas, including industrial relations, wages, termination and severance, trade unions, discrimination, equal rights and occupational safety and health. The Ministry’s stated responsibilities include labour inspections and enforcement, dispute resolution, conciliation and mediation, as well as tripartite consultation among government, employers and workers.
The Women’s Chamber consultation adds a private-sector and gender-focused perspective to the process, particularly on the practical implications of labour regulations for women entrepreneurs and smaller businesses.
Further stakeholder engagement is expected as the Ministry continues work towards a modern and coherent labour framework designed to support decent work, stronger industrial relations and greater clarity for both employers and workers.
