Gov’t will engage GuySuCo on workers’ benefits

AGRICULTURE Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, said the Government is awaiting a report from the Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) on the stalemate with Uitvlugt sugar workers over benefits. The workers have reportedly downed tools since Friday to protest a lack of increase in their wages and salaries amid a pending agreement between GuySuCo and the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU). Speaking on the side-lines of a community consultation in Maida, East Berbice-Corentyne (Region Six), Minister Mustapha said, “the Government has not promised any increase, but we will ensure that we work with the Corporation to see what we can do for the sugar workers.”
The Agriculture Minister said the agreements on wages and salaries are ultimately the responsibility of GuySuCo and GAWU.
“As a Government, we don’t interfere with management and union negotiations.”