GAWU frowns at critics of Government’s ongoing support of GuySuCo; Welcomes $13.3B allocation

GAWU frowns at critics of Government’s ongoing support of GuySuCo; Welcomes $13.3B allocation

The main union representing sugar workers, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union, (GAWU) has welcomed the allocation of $13.3B in this year’s budget to the sugar industry, describing the move as a positive step.

In a statement today, GAWU said while there are gaps that have to be filled to ensure viability for the sugar industry, it sees the Government’s support as strategic to fill those gaps to ensure growth in the sector.

Last year, GUYSUCO missed all of its targets and ended up with the lowest sugar production level in the country’s history, but GAWU believes support such as the $13.3 Billion in this year’s budget will set the fields for a turnaround.

“The Budget outlines a strategic approach to land conversion that supports mechanised operations, an essential step in enhancing productivity. This initiative aligns with our Union’s earlier proposals to optimise labour resources and reduce work efforts. Although our suggestions were not adopted during the previous administration, it is encouraging to see that the current direction acknowledges the potential benefits of such measures. We look forward to collaborating on concrete plans that further develop the industry and maximise its capabilities,” GAWU stated.

GAWU believes that if the investment is properly utilized especially in areas of packaging and increasing production, the industry has a good chance of not only meeting its target, but the current demand for sugar can see it earning increased revenue as well.

The union is not happy with critics of the Government’s multi-billion dollar allocation and continued financial support for the problem plagued sector.

Describing the criticism as “divisive”, GAWU said the rhetoric is unsurprising and a predictable tactic designed to provoke and manipulate public opinion.

According to the Union, the sentiments reveal a shallow analysis and an anti-people, partisan mindset.

The union said President Irfaan Ali articulated perfectly, when he emphasized that the industry must not be viewed solely through a financial lens, but the broader socio-economic implications must be appreciated.

GAWU said it remains steadfast in its commitment to collaborate with all stakeholders to rejuvenate the sugar industry and bring about transformative change, though it says that the challenges confronting the industry demand great focus.

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