The GAWU has taken note of yet another attack in the media by long-standing trade unionist Lincoln Lewis. We recognize several elements of the missive were appropriately addressed by former President and Prime Minister Samuel Hinds. However, in his outburst, Mr Lewis tells the nation that the Government’s support to the sugar industry comes against the background of supporting our Union. It seems to us that Mr Lewis may require some sort of examination to determine whether he has lost his proverbial marbles. To us something is not right with him and now-a-days he has a penchant for making wild, unsubstantiated statements that have no resemblance to reality.
The Government’s position regarding sugar is already publicly known as it takes into account the massive social contribution the industry makes to the well-being of thousands of Guyanese. This of course is well known, and the absence of the industry was vividly captured in the socio-economic study conducted by the ILO. That study found that the livelihoods of workers laid off by estate closure was severely compromised. Why would Mr Lewis want to see an expansion of such hardships in our society? Certainly given his trade union credentials, which he never fails to tout, we would imagine that he would be supportive of policies which safeguard and protect the livelihoods of workers and their families. Are you a genuine trade unionist, Mr Lewis?
So Mr Lewis, the Government’s support is not aimed at GAWU contrary to your beliefs. But it is much broader than that and is in recognition of the invaluable contributions of an industry which built Guyana. It is saddening that in your narrow-minded, twisted diatribe you have not seen it fit to give recognition to such thrust. Then again, such examination may not suit your divisive propaganda.
It seems that Comrade Lincoln is living in his own wonderland and where he chooses to believe his own make believe. We are hopeful he can get the help he seems to need.
