Dear Editor,
I join in congratulating President David Arthur Granger. The just concluded general and regional elections have produced a win-win for all Guyanese with our political leaders outlining a course of development which would not have the winner take all, but which will give impetus to our national motto. We must avoid at all costs the heightening of tensions and all measures which could be considered counter-productive.
All our political, social, religious, business and civic leaders have to put aside their differences and chart a course for the accelerated development of our people.
Over the years my union has built up a very strong understanding where we felt free to discuss matters of mutual interest on sometimes sensitive matters. We in the CCWU firmly believe that change must come, and that change in most cases has brought progress.
However, like everything else, to accept change, any country must be geared for this change.
We have individual dreams of upliftment and advancement for our beloved country, but we, the leadership and membership of the CCWU, strongly believe that tripartite social dialogue is a critical component in establishing a partnership for wealth creation and sustainability.
Trade unions have a vital role in helping Guyana to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), such as reducing by half the number of people who live below the extreme poverty line (on less than US$1.25 per day). Furthermore, MDG 8 refers to a global partnership for development, involving cooperation between governments, trade unions and private sector, to underpin international efforts.
Social dialogue based on freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining, is essential for achieving equitable and mutually beneficial outcomes for government, employers, workers and society at large.
Democratic political institutions, transparent and accountable public and private entities, effective anti-corruption measures, and responsible corporate governance are key conditions for making market economies perform in advanced ways and be more responsive to the value and long-term goals of society.
Yours faithfully,
Sherwood Clarke
General President
Clerical & Commercial Workers Union
