The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), as a responsible workers body, is dismayed that it must continue to decry the apparent lethargic response of the authorities to the prevailing COVID-19 virus in our country. Our Federation has joined the long list of organisations and individuals who have expressed concern, yet it appears that our cries and pleas are literally falling on deaf ears.
We were most pained after reading the April 08, 2020 Stabroek News which featured an article on the untimely passing of Mr Dereck Jaisingh who succumbed to COVID-19 a few evenings ago. It deeply irked us that though Mr Jaisingh was proactive in seeking to convey his symptoms to the rightful agency, there was a clearly lethargic response. But Mr Jaisingh’s incident was not an isolated event but was repeated with Mr Jermaine Ifill who also succumbed. Then we saw Mr Ifill’s brother-in-law, Quincy Braithwaite having to resort to a public appeal before he was given any attention. This, for us like many Guyanese, is an upsetting state-of-affairs. We contend that no Guyanese deserve to be treated in such a manner especially given the grave repercussions that are prevailing.
It is clear to us, at least, that those who are charged with responsibility are either out of depth or out at sea or maybe both. It seems to the Federation that those put in-charge are clearly incapable of discharging their manifold responsibilities to the people of Guyana. It appears that even the avenues for help are really unhelpful and our people are literally left to fend for themselves in this confusing crisis period. This is not the sort of response that we would expect from those who have called themselves leaders.
We saw too that belatedly the Administration is commencing a survey to determine the impact on businesses. What really is this survey expected to achieve when businesses have reported they are already suffering and need immediate assistance not weeks down the road for the completion of some convoluted survey. The entire response is yet another reminder of the anti-worker nature of the masquerading Administration. We ask where the response is for the workers. We ask aren’t they also affected? Don’t they also deserve the assistance of the State in this time? The eerie silence is clear indicator where those who cling to authority stand.
The Federation did see our sustained calls yielding some fruit as the Administration has decided to waive VAT on electricity and water. While we welcome this development we contend this is a mere drop in the ocean. There is an urgent need for stronger and more significant measures if the Government serious about containing COVID-19. The continued procrastination is unhelpful and there is need for decisive and firm leadership in formulating an appropriate menu of economic and social measures. Those tasked with responsibility can no longer confine themselves to their offices, appearing infrequently and for a few minutes. This does not inspire confidence nor does it give our people hope that those who should have their well-being at heart really do. This is saddening if true.
The FITUG, at this time, urges the Administration to kick its response into high gear. The piece-meal and procrastinated response is clearly not helpful. The continued stance can see the situation reaching sad proportions. We sincerely hope this would not be realized but can be averted with measures to assist beleaguered Guyanese.
As we have been doing we again urge everyone to avoid leaving their homes, if they can; to cover their noses and mouth when outside; to regularly wash their hands, and to heed all warnings and take every precaution. A concerted effort by us all can making a meaningful difference.at this time.
