FITUG backs calls for inquiry into sugar industry

At the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana’s (FITUG) fifth delegates’ congress on Wednesday, its four affiliate unions unanimously agreed for an inquiry into the sugar industry.

According to a press release from FITUG, the one-day conference which was held at the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre had in attendance approximately 60 delegates from its four affiliates, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE), the Clerical and Commercial Workers Union (CCWU) and the Guyana Labour Union (GLU) all of whom unanimously agreed to resolutions in five areas which would be forwarded to the various agencies and bodies for their attention:

Trade union unity

Endorsement of GAWU’s and NAACIE’s call for an inquiry into the Sugar Industry

Solidarity with the CCWU

Tax reforms

General international situation and the growing struggle of workers and peoples

Although several other issues such as historical allegiances were discussed, the General Secretary, Kenneth Joseph presented an eleven-page report which addressed issues such as FITUG’s educational programme, the prevailing global       situation, issues affecting affiliates, participation in national and international events in additional to several others.

There was also an election for the fifteen-member executive committee, who would be responsible for the effective functioning of the body until the sixth conference.

President of FITUG, Carvil Duncan and Minister of Labour Dr Nanda Gopaul were among those who addressed the delegates.