GGMC workers return to work with 8% pay hike

Following four days of industrial action, workers of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) returned to work on Friday after they received a fraction of their proposed interim salary increase, as negotiations continue.

GGMC workers downed tools last Monday after failed talks for a 30% increase in salary for 2013.

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), which represents the workers, had been pressing the GGMC to give a 15% interim increase across the board while the negotiations continue.

That demand was turned down by the GGMC and some 150 workers opted to down tools to express their displeasure with the discussions between their employer and the union.

Senior Industrial Relations Officer Dennis English informed Stabroek News yesterday that the workers had returned to work since Friday after an agreement was signed for an 8% increase across the board.

He also pointed out that as part of the terms of resumption, the board has to meet with the union in the next 72 hours, which is today.