The Guyana Public Service Union has chided the government for what the union considers the “willy nilly’ dismissal of public servants.

Since the government took office back in August last year, hundreds of public servants have been sent home, some with little to no reason for their terminations.

Last week, more than 70 were sent packing from the Guyana Water Incorporated and another 100 will be sent home in the coming weeks.

The Public Service Union is celebrating its 98th anniversary today, and in his anniversary message, President of the Union, Patrick Yarde said it is a sad state of affairs for the public service in Guyana.

“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,” Yarde said

According to the GPSU President, there are legally binding agreements between the Government and the Public Service Union, adding that the union has requested several meetings with the government to address the issues facing workers but is still to receive any response.

“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,” The GPSU President noted.

The union is of the view that the challenges that it has continuously faced over the years to address workers’ issues are now escalating.

Yarde claimed that there are ongoing political attempts to undermine the Union’s credibility and 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,” the Statement said.

The Union has also warned of the lapses by the administration in dealing with Covid-19 and climate change issues.

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