The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) has expressed concern about reports of a possible full lockdown to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and its deleterious effects on the poor.
In a press release on Thursday, FITUG stated that it was aware of the “significant jump” in the number of COVID-19 cases in the country. The Federation, while wishing those affected a speedy recovery, at the same time felt it necessary to express its “deep worry and concern” regarding the prevailing situation, while alos noting that it learnt from several sources that the authorities, in seeking to slow the virus, are actively considering a full lockdown of the country.
The Federation opined that on the surface, such a strategy may appear to be a “prudent” idea but hastened to point out that such a policy also “is fraught with severe challenges as well.” It contends that a lockdown can be most harmful for the poor, as already, the crisis has seen many workers being rendered jobless while for other Guyanese their incomes have been significantly curtailed.