The rising number of COVID-19 infections coupled with the high death rate for the month of March has drawn the attention of the umbrella trade union body FITUG.
In a release yesterday, the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) expressed its concern over the recent rise in coronavirus cases and the fact that since the start of the month, as many as fourteen persons have lost their lives to the virus. The Federation noted the possible emergence of a variant of the virus here and the Health Ministry’s warning that the virus had become more virulent and deadly.
It is with this in mind that FITUG is urging all Guyanese to act responsibly and adhere to the COVID-19 protocols in the effort to minimise the rapid spread of the virus. The release also touched on the collaborative efforts of the police and the military to ensure that the pandemic protocols and measures particularly as it pertains to gatherings were enforced.
“These actions which seem to have been effective, we hold, should have not been necessary. We believe, as responsible people, it is incumbent upon us all to take sober actions to staunch transmission of COVID-19,” the release stated while expressing the hope that Guyanese would demonstrate a greater degree of responsibility.
And while on the topic of responsible behaviour, the Federation drew attention to the issue of persons gathering at bars, shops and other business places. “While we recognize that businesses have been severely affected by the pandemic, we urge business owners to also demonstrate some sense of urgency and seek to promote practices that allow businesses to function while mitigating against the spread of virus. It is in the long-term interest of our nation.” The union body also acknowledged that such gatherings are not only evident at business places but extend to social and other gatherings, adding, “These are equally irresponsible and those who encourage such congregation should be appropriately sanctioned.”
FITUG mentioned the current vaccination programme and the efforts by the administration to obtain more vaccines, stating, “This is welcome news and demonstrates a responsible attitude.” It also criticized those who chose not to be inoculated, declaring that “such talk is not helpful to defeating the pandemic and allowing life to return to normal.”
The Federation urged all eligible Guyanese to be vaccinated at this time and encouraged employers to allow their employees time off to be inoculated while at the same time, providing adequate protection at the workplace.
The Federation also extended its deepest sympathies to the relatives and friends of those who lost their lives and wishes those infected by COVID-19, a speedy and healthy recovery, the release added.
