Pres. Ali calls for new era of worker-Govt-employer partnership

President Dr Irfaan Ali said on Thursday that a modern culture of industrial relations demands deeper cooperation among stakeholders such as labour representatives, employers and the Government.

He made this remark in his message to commemorate today’s observance of Labour Day.

According to the Head of State, while Guyana celebrates the undeniable progress made by the working class since independence, the country must also acknowledge that new and complex challenges confront workers.

“Global inflationary pressure, supply chain disruptions, technological displacement through automation and artificial intelligence, the adverse effects of climate change in environmental instability and shifting geopolitical tensions all threaten the security and livelihoods of working people. That is why we in Guyana are investing heavily in equitable access to technology, digitisation, world-class healthcare, world-class education, social services, equitable access to recreational facilities and infrastructure, and improved living conditions,” he asserted.

President Ali noted that his Government is also building prosperity for every home and every working-class family, creating an ecosystem that will support a quality of life second to none for every working-class family. However, he pointed out that this calls for a renewed compact within the tripartite framework of labour, employers and Government.

“There must be a deliberate shift toward deeper cooperation, collaboration and mutual respect, moving away from entrenched conflict and confrontation. By fostering a modern culture of industrial relations grounded in partnership, we can better shield workers from external shocks and safeguard the standard of living. In so doing, we will not only honour the legacy of those who fought before us but also future-proof our economy, ensuring that the gains of the working class are preserved and strengthened for generations to come,” the Guyanese leader stated.

Debt to workers

Highlighting that Labour 2026 comes as Guyana is about to mark its 60th anniversary of independence, Ali says it is especially fitting to pay tribute to the instrumental role played by workers and the working class in the struggle for and eventual attainment of political freedom. He noted that martyrdom of sugar workers in 1948 ignited a new and decisive wave of resistance, strengthening the resolve of the Guyanese people and accelerating the march toward eventual independence on May 26, 1966.

“Our nation, therefore, owes an immense debt to its workers. Their sacrifices help secure not only improved conditions, but also the fundamental freedoms we now enjoy. Yet, it is also true that the divisions that emerged within the national movement found echoes in the labour movement in both the pre- and post-independence eras, weakening working-class unity. These lessons of the past bear witness to the triumphs born of unity. The setbacks caused by division and strife must not guide our response to an increasingly uncertain and interconnected world,” he emphasised.

The president went on to note his Government has heavily demonstrated its commitment to the nation’s workers, outlining the various initiatives implemented such as Public Sector salary increases, raising the income tax threshold, tax adjustments for families, reforms to reduce the tax burden on individuals, cash pay-outs, social welfare programmes, and targeted interventions to cushion the effects of imported inflation, among others.

According to the Head of State, these are investments that will continue to empower and strengthen the working class so that they can have an equal place in the development, prosperity, and advancement of the country.

“Together, these initiatives reflect a sustained commitment to improving the welfare of Guyana’s workers. My Government remains open to working with workers and their representatives to forge a new culture of cooperation and collaboration, one that builds trust, strengthens partnerships and places the national interest above all else. Therefore, as we prepare to celebrate our nation’s Diamond Jubilee, let us consolidate the historic gains made since independence and lay an even stronger foundation for a Guyana defined by shared prosperity, opportunity and dignity for all. Happy May Day to all workers. Solidarity forever. God bless all of you and your families,” President Ali declared.

Story of labour

Meanwhile, Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips also echoed similar sentiments, calling for collective action among stakeholders to ensure workers’ rights are protected and that sustainable working conditions are fostered. This responsibility, he pointed out, cannot rest with Government alone.

“Employers, trade unions, workers’ organisations and every stakeholder in the labour sector must continue to work together in a spirit of consultation, cooperation and mutual respect. Industrial harmony, fair treatment and productive workplaces are best achieved when there is open dialogue and a shared commitment to the national good,” he noted.

In his message, PM Phillips said Labour Day is a reminder that the rights and conditions that are now upheld were hard-won through the courage and collective resolve of passionate men and women before us, such as Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow – one of the forefathers of the labour movement that started in pre-independent Guyana.

According to the PM, the labour movement in Guyana has always been more than a call for better wages and improved working conditions but part of the wider national journey towards dignity, social justice, equality and development.

“From the estates and factories to the public service, schools, hospitals, security services, construction sites, private enterprises and emerging industries, Guyanese workers have helped to build the foundation on which our country continues to advance.”

“We celebrate this day each year because the story of labour is never finished. Every generation inherits both the progress made and the responsibility to protect and advance it. In a modern and evolving economy such as ours, the value of our labour force lies in qualities such as our skills, innovation and our ability to adapt to new demands,” he stated.

The PM further stated that at this important stage in Guyana’s development, that growth must be matched by stronger protections, better skills, safer workplaces and an improved quality of life for workers and their families. He said national development must be measured not only by infrastructure and investment but also by how well it improves the lives of the men and women whose labour makes that development possible.

“As we honour this day, I urge that we recognise that Guyana’s strength rests in the hands of its people. So, we must ensure we invest in our workers; in doing so, we are making a direct investment in Guyana’s future. Happy Labour Day, Guyana, as we continue to work together!”