Jagdeo laments division in workers’ movement
Stabroek News
May 1, 2003
President Bharrat Jagdeo says it is unfortunate that once again on May Day, the workers’ movement finds itself divided.
In his message for May Day 2003, President Jagdeo said that over the years his government has had several meetings at the bilateral level with the Trades Union Congress on matters affecting organized labour. However, he noted, 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 organized labour.
According to President Jagdeo, “at the national level, despite the restoration of democratic norms and values, widespread discussions are taking place on the issue of shared governance,” and he observed that championing this cause are some very influential members of civil society, including many leaders of the labour movement.
But he submitted it is disheartening that there is an absence at the same level of discussions on the issue of unity, solidarity and democracy at the level of the Trade Union Movement in Guyana.
Jagdeo further contended that “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 President expressed the 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 Guyana.
“Rest assured that my government would do all within its power to aid the process of industrial harmony and stability,” Jagdeo asserted.
