The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) was saddened to learn of the passing of Dr Yesu Persaud, former Chairman of the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL). GAWU and Dr Persaud’s relations span several decades and begun during his stint in the sugar industry. As one of the bargaining agents of the DDL, our relations were consolidated and undoubtedly his involvement led to several improvements to the workers conditions-of-work. We have always admired his humility and his desire to ensure that workers were treated fairly. We believe this must have been influenced by his own life on the sugar plantation. The GAWU sees this as one of the many outstanding qualities of the late Dr Persaud.
The GAWU recollects his support to the sugar industry. He was among those who brought the industry into the hands of the State. Later, he denounced efforts to privatize it during the Hoyte Administration. His contribution to the restoration of democracy is also remembered at this time. Indeed, this was yet one of his many contributions to the Guyanese people.
At this time, the GAWU extends its sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Dr Yesu Persaud. We also send our sympathies to the Management and Staff of the DDL and the other organisations to which he was affiliated. Certainly, our country has lost another outstanding son of the soil.
