The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) today said that it and the Guyana Gold Board (GGB) have arrived at a consensus on various enhancements for the employees represented within the Union’s bargaining unit including one-day menstrual leave.
“We are excited to announce a ground-breaking new benefit: menstrual leave for female employees. Under this agreement, women will receive one day’s leave each month during their menstrual cycle. While this practice is common in several countries around the world, we are proud to be the first in our country to implement such a progressive benefit. This initiative aims to alleviate some of the challenges women face during this time. We are confident that this new policy will enhance the overall welfare of our employees at the Gold Board, and the Union is actively working to extend this benefit to workers in other bargaining units where we hold negotiation rights”, a release from the union said.
It added that the agreement embraces vital improvements in allowances, such as meals. The Union and the Board have also reached an agreement on a ten per cent pay hike for workers in 2024.
“The workers are happy with the recent agreement forged between the parties, expressing their delight at the positive changes that have been achieved. The GAWU is particularly proud to have reached an agreement at the bilateral level, viewing it as a strong reflection of the friendly and respectful relationship shared between the Union and the Gold Board”, the union added.
