The main union representing sugar workers in Guyana, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union, is disappointed that the sugar company, GuySuCo, has failed to meet its production target, However, the union has made it clear that workers should not be blamed.

In a statement today, GAWU noted that as has become the norm, the GuySuCo sought to blame the workers for its production woes.

GAWU said blaming the workers is a worn-out excuse, especially since during the year, the company praised its workers efforts in enabling the realization of sugar targets.

The union said it remains concerned about the management of the industry, noting that it is aware that over time the industry has lost critical skills arising from attrition and retirement.

The Union also said it understands that the exodus has hastened in recent times arising from differences of opinions among personalities.

“If our reports are indeed correct, this is an unhealthy development and does not help the industry in any form. We share the view expressed by Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo that there is a need to strengthen the industry’s management cadre to replace lost skills and to bring new ways of thinking in addressing present day challenges”, the union noted.

GAWU has been calling for the CEO of Guysuco Sasenarine Singh to be replaced, but the Government has ignored the unions calls.

Looking ahead to the new year, GAWU believes there should be additional investments in the sugar industry, especially with regard to the human resource.

GAWU believes sugar workers need to be paid better.

According to the union, the sugar industry has possibilities of success and those possibilities must be examined.

“The company has drawn to our attention its efforts in advancing its packaged sugar sales and its securing of new markets. This is encouraging though its low production maybe be a limiting factor. Undoubtedly there is an urgent need to improve production and productivity at all the estates. This has several possible positive spill offs”.

Over $10 billion has been pumped into Guysuco since February.

Related posts:

Albion Shop Stewards picket sugar estate over concerns about management GAWU will not be cowed by propaganda and false narratives about sugar industry -Union President GAWU presses for 15% retroactive salary increase for workers and makes counter proposal to bonus Guysuco appears on track to meet production target…8, 800 more tonnes needed