In wake of the firing of 65 workers who were contracted for the gas to shore project without warning, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union through its Oil and Gas Branch is one again pressing for union representation for workers in the oil and gas sector and related fields.

The 65 workers were laid off from their jobs five months into their one year contract.

They complained that there was no information provided for their firing, with vague references to certain clauses in their contract and the “slowing down of work”.

In a statement, GAWU said the most recent layoffs is yet another indicator of the troubling labour situation and the apparent disregard for workers’ rights and concerns in the burgeoning sector. 

The union said its advocacy is on the record in defence of the rights of all workers, and it has on several occasions, emphasised the need for job security, transparency, and respect for Guyanese workers’ rights and laws.

“We had previously warned of this unfolding situation, which appears to have become more pronounced. The situation has raised alarm in the sector, and there are concerns over whether the short-term employment of locals is used as a means to meet thresholds set out by the Local Content Act. We sincerely hope this is not the case but cannot condone our Guyanese workers being treated as mere ‘props’ to satisfy quotas”, the union said.

GAWU said the incident underscores the efforts of GAWU’s Oil and Gas Branch to advance union protection and recognition in the sector, adding that local workers undoubtedly need a strong voice to safeguard their jobs and hold their employers accountable for fair treatment.

“We urge Guyanese to recognise the importance of their rights and to join us in advocating for stronger protections and decent employment. Certainly, it is not our hope that other workers are victims of similar tactics by their employers”, GAWU said.

GAWU said it remains steadfast in its commitment to providing leadership, guidance, and representing workers in the sector, and also urges those who hold responsibility to ensure that compliance is not superficial but translates into genuine, sustained employment for local workers.

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