The President said that despite the difficult international situation and the constraints faced by the nation, Guyanese workers would feel a sense of satisfaction.

The following is the full text of the message:

“SOLIDARITY and best wishes for a happy May Day 2003. On this, the workers’ day, I extend to you my Government’s recognition for the courageous manner in which you as workers of our beloved country undertook your task between the last May Day and this one today.

Despite the difficult international situation and the constraints faced by the nation over the last year, including acts of criminality, the country was managed in a manner in which the Guyanese workers would feel a sense of satisfaction. The Government continues to work towards finding resolutions to the numerous problems plaguing the nation. But more importantly, Government has, as its top priority, the continued improvement of the living standards of workers and the reduction of poverty throughout the country. This is manifested in Government’s involvement and emphasis on the issue of tackling poverty over the recent years.

May Day is seen as a day when the collective will and spirit of the workers are utilized to galvanise strength in solidarity. It is unfortunate that once again, in this special day, the workers movement finds itself divided. At the national level, despite the restoration of democratic norms and values, widespread discussions are taking place on the issue of shared governance. Championing this cause are some very influential members of civil society including many leaders of the Labour Movement. What is however disheartening is the absence of the same level of discussion on the issue of unity, solidarity and democracy at the level of the Trade Union Movement in Guyana.

The Government has placed immense emphasis on the importance of the National Labour Movement to the development of the country and in particular the well being of the Guyanese workers. Over the years, this Government has had several meetings at the bilateral level with the Trade Union Congress on matters affecting organised labour. However, the more the division persists within the Labour Movement the more difficult it will be for proper coordination and realistic discussions to take place between the Government and organised labour. Issues of concern to both Government and labour must find a common forum whereby the parties can work towards either a resolution or some form of reconciliation.

The Government of Guyana has placed great emphasis on the issue of a consultative approach to any problem that may be experienced by an aggrieved party. This process is evident when the partners to industrial relations worked collectively for the enactment of the most modern pieces of labour legislation ever introduced in this country.

It is my hope that this May Day will see a greater resolve on the part of the workers’ movement to work assiduously for the resolution of industrial conflicts in our country. Rest assured that my Government would do all within its power to aid the process of industrial harmony and stability.

Workers and their leaders can play their part by supporting Government’s efforts at nation building in a meaningful way. If we all work together, hand in hand, forgetting politics and the issues that divide us, we can all enhance the development process of this country and in so doing, promote the improvement of our own well-being.