Message by Mr. Patrick Yarde, President/CEO on the occasion of GPSU’s 98th Anniversary on June 8th 2021

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) observes its 98^th Anniversary today Tuesday June 8^th 2021. On this occasion the Union has chosen the theme: “Ensuring an efficient, professional and credible Public Service; committed to the delivery of Quality Public Services”.

The GPSU considers this theme most appropriate since it is convinced that the Public Service faces serious challenges to maintain its true purpose of being efficient, professional and objective while providing services in an even handed manner to all users without fear. This position was determined from reports the Union received and the conduct of public officials that should be engaging the union to address these concerns.

In keeping with legally binding agreements between the Government of Guyana and the Guyana Public Service Union, meetings have been requested, but there has been no response, notwithstanding several reminders. Requests to discuss increases in wages, salaries and enhanced conditions of service, have gone unanswered and representations made to address grievances are constantly being frustrated. Members reported that they feel intimidated – terminations of workers’ employment are being done ‘willy nilly’. Workers are being placed on the bread line and left vulnerable, while other sectors are favoured with billion dollar awards.

This conflicts with political commitments and rhetoric publicly stated by the current Government, during its campaign and after being sworn into office.

The landscape that the GPSU has to navigate has been faced with continuous challenges for decades and is now escalating. There are ongoing political attempts to undermine the Union’s image and credibility and openly seeks to disrupt relationships within the Union. The membership has proven over time that they are not puppets, through a display of high intellect and professionalism. These qualities are most appreciative and have proven to be the strength of our beloved Union. It is noteworthy to highlight these strengths in summary: professional but not puppets; patriots not politicians; and last but not lease principled, not perverse. The GPSU is committed to the protection of all members and confronting any and all attempts at depreciating their image, including vile attempts to put them at risk.

In this regard, the Union’s leadership has publicly warned of the lapses by the administration in dealing with Covid-19 and has also cautioned about the detrimental effects of climate change. In fact, in my May Day 2021 Message this was clearly stated viz:

“Another area that requires attention is the environment and climate change, there is no doubt that 2021 would present serious challenges, which maybe devastating and we must start preparing to respond to such challenges”.

Yes! This was meant to involve disaster preparedness It is now evident the negative response to the obvious effects of climate change – severe flooding in many communities throughout Guyana.

Despite the arrogance and negativity our campaigns must be maintained:

-      In pursuit of good governance

In keeping with the theme for the 98^th Anniversary I call on all Public Service Workers to continue to give of their best, to continue to be loyal patriots and most of all do all that is necessary to protect yourselves and your families. The road ahead will be difficult but surmountable once we stand together as our forefathers did in the pass, on whose shoulders we now stand. It is on their shoulders that we stand. Therefore, there is a responsibility to maintain a sturdy ship and a legacy and stewardship to pass to our emerging leaders.