Dear Editor,

There has been a general opinion that the problems with the Bauxite Company of Guyana Inc (BCGI) have something to do with the government’s desire to take full control of the trade union movement. The continual refusal of Minister Manzoor Nadir and Yoganand Persaud, Chief Labour Officer, to legally address the issues between the Guyana Bauxite & General Workers Union (GB&GWU) and BCGI is shedding light on an emerging dynamic.

Currently workers at Aroaima and Kwakwani are being asked to sign another document, which this time, is one that is requesting that NAACIE become the union to represent them.  The trade union community usually speaks about workers’ rights and solidarity, and the emergence of NAACIE in this dispute brings into sharp focus the departure of this principle and questions NAACIE’s commitment as it now joins with the government to see the violation of workers’ rights and the laws in its pursuit of control. A known PPP activist, is conducting the signature campaign in full view of the management. Two nights ago the company and the PPP scheduled a meeting at the plant for the workers to meet with NAACIE. The workers did not turn up. It is becoming evident daily that this is not a labour dispute between a company and union. It is political with the clear markings of the PPP, now supported by NAACIE.

The conduct of the Minister of Labour, Chief Labour Officer, BCGI and NAACIE confirms the view that there exists a collaboration to deny bauxite workers their right to pursue justice and fair play at the workplace.

This recent machination will not deter the union’s commitment to the struggle to ensure the rights of their members are restored and respected and it will continue to expose and challenge the lawlessness.

Yours faithfully,
Leslie Gonsalves
General Secretary (ag)
GB&GWU