Discussions between the GAWU and the GuySuCo regarding a pay rise continued yesterday (February 12) as the Union offered its response to the proposal regarding improved rates-of-pay made by the Corporation on February 07, 2019. At the meeting, the Union informed that it could not see completely eye-to-eye with what has been put on the table by the sugar company. Our response took account of the consultative engagements with the sugar workers of Albion, Blairmont and Uitvlugt Estates. Bearing in mind that the discussions are still on-going, we do believe it is prudent to disclose where the parties have convergent and divergent views. Nevertheless, we contend that they are some fundamental issues that must be borne in mind and considered favourably.
The workers and the Union opined that the Corporation should not seek to move the goal post away from where it really belongs and where the parties discussions commenced. Workers felt too that their situation should not be used to their disadvantage or seemingly exploited. GAWU in interactions with sugar workers was told that while they welcomed the movement by the Corporation, they urged that a settlement should not come at any expense. They recognized and are convinced that their consistent struggles, which were manifested in several forms since 2015, have finally borne fruit. They are also convinced that they deserve, like all workers, a fair and just rise-in-pay and that is all they simply desire.
The workers did not fail to recognize the pay rise offer to be another vote-getting exercise as they lamented such opportunistic tendencies. They have been ignored since 2015, but, it seems, they are suddenly important as their and their families votes are now considered pivotal.
The engagement concluded with the Corporation’s team undertaking to take the Union’s position into consideration before offering a response. The GAWU and the workers are looking for good sense to prevail and that the workers to be justly rewarded for their dedicated efforts. The parties have agreed to meet in the coming week and where it is expected that the GuySuCo will inform of its position on the Union’s counter-proposal. At this time, both the Union and the workers are anxiously awaiting to hear from the GuySuCo as we consider our next steps.
