Dear Editor,
I had the misfortune of reading a letter titled `Questions for Leslie Gonsalves’, published in the Stabroek News, March 26 edition. Not much surprises me anymore on the rights and wrongs in Guyana, especially where the PPP, is directly or indirectly involved. Every day I think of coming home for an extended period to be a part of the struggle to rid Guyana of the PPP/Civic Government come 2011. This is an unscrupulous government that is shameless on every front.
Those of us who have been fortunate to have been associated with, work for or have been represented by the Guyana Bauxite and General Workers Union will have no doubt that the GB&GWU will weather the present impasse with BCGI and by extension the Government of Guyana. GB&GWU has done it before; they can do it again. In reading that letter, I must add, I had doubts that Orin Ford aka Big Wheel, would have consciously agreed to be a signatory to it.
I am one of those people who can be bracketed in those three categories; associated with, worked for and represented by that union. Orin Ford, a signatory to the above mentioned letter will fit those categories too, though it seems he has added another. Basher of the GB&GWU.
Our history as workers at Aroaima, our experience with expatriate companies and our stewardship in representing employees there are well known. What has gone wrong, Mr Ford? What has changed? Is there no longer a platform to raise grievances if there is dissatisfaction with how the union is conducting its business be it accountability of finances, etc? I will defend any employee’s right to do that, providing it is dealt with out of genuine concern and through the right channels. To publicly attempt to undermine the union’s efforts, in this instance, is to betray the fundamental right of your fellow employees to be properly represented by the union of their choice. The timing of the allegations against the union speaks volumes.
If it has reached to the point, that you and I are well aware of, where our immediate job and livelihood is precariously hung in the balance through threats and intimidation by the employer, we must intensify the struggle and remain in solidarity. You have done it before. You still have a job, wasn’t the union our backbone then. What has changed? I call on every employee to continue to fight and not give up. This is not the time to be divided.
I am reminded of a strike we had at Aroaima, Mr Ford and Mr Byass (another signatory) were there, workers had assembled and were having a meeting during the morning hours. One worker had taken the floor and in an inspiring and militant manner, he urged us to stand our ground. He told us a chain is as strong as its weakest link; only to see him heading for the bus with his helmet and lunch bag to catch the night shift. Mr Ford will tell you this is a true occurrence.
Bauxite workers must understand the wider picture of their sufferings. Though I suspect they are already fully aware. Please return to the fold Orin Ford. A chain is as strong as its weakest link.
Yours faithfully,
Norman Browne
London
