The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) is calling on the government to invest in the creation of decent jobs and in the training and retaining of workers to halt the decline in the local standard of living.

In a press release the GPSU said it joins the call internationally, and embraces other unions in observance of World Day for Decent Work 2009. It said the Human Development Index report 2008-2009 stated that Guyana has dropped 17 places and has moved from 97 to 114. In light of this it endorsed the general secretary’s comments that now is the time to invest in education and the health of the people and in the care of the very young and the aged.

“A real and sustainable economy in the service of the people requires the creation of decent jobs and decent public services. This crisis must not be used as an excuse to create more precarious jobs and working conditions. Quality public services are essential in building strong economies and inclusive societies, and quality public services cannot be achieved without decent, stable working conditions,” the GPSU said.

It has also set up a Decent Work Committee headed by president Patrick Yarde, which is mandated to strategize to overcome all challenges and obstacles, to realise a decent work agenda.