The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) has called on the government to consider the circumstances of the average working man and women and to ensure that they have more disposable income.
In a press release, it said it participated on October 6th in wide-ranging discussions with the Government of Guyana on the development of the 2024 National Budget. FITUG said its team recommended policies to further enhance the welfare of workers in Guyana and urged the government to consider the circumstances of the average working man and woman and the importance of addressing the income tax regime to improve disposable income for workers.
FITUG said it suggested changes to the income tax threshold and the rate of taxation and proposed a system of credits for taxpayers with dependents while highlighting that adjustments in the income tax regime would not necessarily benefit all workers. FITUG said it reiterated its previous call for the national minimum wage and public sector minimum wage to be equated as a starting point towards reaching a living wage. FITIG said this proposal was in line with recent statements by President Irfaan Ali of government’s inclination to adjust the income tax regime and the national minimum wage to benefit the working class.
The trade union movement said it urged the government to consider specific improvements in old age pensions and public assistance through Budget 2024. FITUG said it is aware of regular improvements but there is still some way to go. FITUG also called for an adjustment in the pensions paid by the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), which has not been addressed for some time. It suggested that Budget 2024 consider the introduction of pay increments within the public service to ensure that workers who perform credibly are appropriately recognised. Such measures encourage greater work performance and enhance workers’ pay levels. It was further recommended that these measures be discussed with the relevant bargaining agents across the public service.
FITUG highlighted the urgent need to strengthen the labour legislation in the country, acknowledging that the current situation is fast-evolving and appropriate interventions are necessary for a robust legal framework to protect workers’ rights and which are upheld at work. The movement noted that many laws have not been updated in years and appear disconnected from contemporary issues. FITUG also recommended that the Labour Ministry be strengthened to provide appropriate protection for workers and urged government to provide the necessary resources to the Ministry. Additionally, FITUG called on the government to look into the question of labour productivity, suggesting that workers are sometimes
overworked, which could lead to disenchantment and hinder productivity.
FITUG also advanced that Budget 2024 provide support for the sugar industry. It recognises there had been improvements, but more work still needs to be done. It called on the Government to continue to assist in improving the capacity and capability of the sugar industry. The union body also expressed concern about the country’s infrastructure and the potential for degradation due to misuse. Despite government’s efforts to invest billions in building and improving community infrastructure, FITUG urged that appropriate measures be advanced to ensure the longevity of these assets.
FITUG said that in its meeting with the government, it emphasised the importance of maintaining assets that serve the people of Guyana and called on government to prioritise the safety of citizens on the roadways given the rising number of vehicles and reckless driving behaviour. The union body recommended government implements all appropriate mechanisms, including technology, to protect all road users. FITUG also expressed concern over the lack of attention paid to occupational safety and health (OSH). While recognising the unfortunate deaths of many workers, FITUG said it called on government to provide resources to ensure appropriate oversight is given to the construction sector.
FITUG’s team was led by its President, Carvil Duncan.
