Dear Editor,
The oil & gas sector of Guyana has provided countless jobs to our locals, whether it be onshore or offshore. However, some offshore workers, particularly those employed by a particular company, are given an “all work, no play”’ schedule. Workers on their vessels are currently working a 28-56 days rotation whereas they had signed on for a 28-28 rotation. Simply put, these seafarers are working 56 days offshore and are home for 28 days.
Per year, it’s equivalent to less than 4 months home and 8 months offshore. It may be argued that this is the “offshore life”, but matter of fact, this isn’t what they had initially signed on for. The rotation is mentally and physically straining and can compromise the safety of offshore workers. It also means less time at home spent with family or to make any sort of personal development due to being at sea for such a long periods at a time.
This concern was raised to the relevant authority, but, nothing was done to rectify the issue. We can make up for lost money, but we can’t make up for lost time.
Sincerely,
A Concerned Wife & Mother