Message of Solidary: The Guyana Public Service Union grieves with affected families and calls for urgent action to ensure safe spaces

Message of Solidary: The Guyana Public Service Union grieves with affected families and calls for urgent action to ensure safe spaces.

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) stands in solidarity with the families and residents of the closely knit community in the north-eastern Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, Canada, on the loss of their loved ones. The GPSU expresses deepest condolences to the families of the nine victims, who tragically lost their lives. The Union shares in the grief felt by the community and the entire country.

The Executive Council and Members of the GPSU are saddened by the fatal shooting of an Educator and the five students of the Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. The GPSU also grieves with the family and friends of Jesse Van Rootselaar, who allegedly shot and killed her mother and stepbrother and then ended her own life. The young people, including Jesse Van Rootselaar, were all potential future leaders and workers destined to make meaningful contributions to the development of Canada. It is indeed a tragedy and while the motive behind the shooting is still unknown, it is nevertheless important that immediate steps be taken to ensure that nothing like this ever happens again.

Reports indicate that mental health challenges were one of the factors. The GPSU recognises that mental health support is critical for both students and the general workforce. These support mechanisms must be seen as investments in delivering and maintaining health and safety for all. They must always be available and equally accessible by all. Employers and Governments repeatedly call for increased productivity. Increased productivity and strong work ethics are present when the necessary investments are made in communities and workplaces, where workers and community members can be safe, respected and comfortable. Building self-esteem and providing support to all through Quality Public Services are critical in creating safe spaces for all. This Union adds its voice to calls for all stakeholders to recognise these linkages and to work together to ensure the needed resources are provided.

The GPSU also recognises the strength and commitment of first responders and school staff in protecting the children at schools. When there is danger, first responders go forth and face that danger to protect lives. School Staff faces the danger to protect the lives of those in their care. The GPSU joins with all Trade Unions in recommending that public policies, resources, investments, and protection systems be revised to help keep communities and workplaces safe.

160 Regent & Shiv Chanderpaul Drive,

Bourda,

Georgetown.

February 2026