We are the guardians of workers’ rights – CLO

Several employees of the Ministry of Labour are participating in a three-day Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) Operations Training Programme, conducted by Global People Services and Management (GPSM) Consultants Incorporated.

The workshop is designed to deepen participants’ knowledge of FPSO design, operations, and technology, to enhance operational efficiency and safety. It also aims to equip professionals with the skills needed to address complex challenges in the field. Each session includes the participation of four Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) and Labour Officers.

The opening ceremony, held in the Ministry’s Boardroom, was attended by Chief Labour Officer Mr. Dhaneshwar Deonarine; OSH Consultant Ms. Gweneth King; Assistant Chief OSH Officers Mr. Roydon Croal and Ms. Maxean Bess; GPSM Manager Ms. Angenie Abel; and Principal Consultant and Trainer for the programme, Mr. Garth Vincent, among others.

In brief remarks, Chief Labour Officer Deonarine emphasised that the workshop aligns with the Ministry of Labour’s ongoing commitment to equipping its staff with the knowledge and skills needed to enhance their efficiency and effectiveness, particularly in the context of offshore inspections.

He noted that both labour and Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) officers play a critical role in safeguarding workers’ rights and ensuring safe working environments.

Given the high-risk and hazardous nature of the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) operations, he described the training as essential preparation. “Our role is now more important than ever. We are, in many ways, the guardians of workers’ rights, responsible for ensuring that both employees and workplaces remain safe,” he said.

The Chief Labour Officer also highlighted ongoing consultations with trade union representatives and the Consultative Association of Guyanese Industry (CAGI) regarding the need to review and modernise the country’s labour laws and regulations to better support the work of labour officers.

Echoing these views, Assistant OSH Officer Mr. Roydon underscored the significance of the training, noting that it reflects the Ministry’s proactive approach to ensuring its officers are prepared to carry out their responsibilities—rather than responding reactively after issues arise.