Latest update March 29th, 2024 12:59 AM
Apr 15, 2016 Letters
Dear Editor,
Separate and distinct from the several benefits awarded by the Dr. Aubrey Armstrong Arbitration Tribunal as a result of the 1999 fifty —seven (57) days strike called by the GPSU and its members, the employees (Public Servants ) were awarded increases of 31.06 and 26.66 percentages for the year 1999 and 2000 respectively. This was in contrast to a 3 % and eventually 4.6 % across the board final offer by the then Government. In this regard, had it not been for the strike action that forced arbitration on a reluctant Government, Public Servants wages and salary payments would have been far lower than what is currently paid. It is in this regard I considered the 1999 strike a benefit to Public Servants. Further the GPSU, its members and all those who contributed in one way or the other to make the above struggle a success, should be commended.
Having outlined the above mentioned facts it is important to note the following. The then Government had entered into an agreement with the IMF for Public Servants wages / salaries increases per annum not exceeding 3 % increase over a ten year span. This was put to the GPSU but same was rejected. After further deliberation between the Government and GPSU a new offer of 4.6% was put to the Union at the bilateral stage. This was also rejected. As a result the Union maintained its proposal of 40% across the board increase for 1999. The matter was deadlocked at the bilateral stage and was therefore referred to conciliation at the Ministry of Labour, where there was also a deadlock. It was due to the refusal of the then Government to go to arbitration that resulted in the strike which commenced on the 29th April, 1999 and lasted until the 29th June 1999. It was after immense pressure the Government subdued. The other benefits that were awarded by the Arbitration are still to be honoured.
Gregory Mentore
THIS IDIOT TELLING GUYANA WE HAVE NO SAY IN THE 50% PROFIT SHARING AGREEMENT WE HAVE WITH EXXON.
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