President Dr Irfaan Ali on Friday marked Labour Day with a call for unity, resilience and renewed cooperation among workers, employers and government, as the country prepares to celebrate 60 years of independence.
In a national message, the President paid tribute to the historic role of workers in securing both improved living conditions and Guyana’s political freedom, noting that the labour movement was central to the struggle that culminated in independence on May 26, 1966.
“On this Workers’ Day, I join in honouring the enduring contributions of workers to the building of our nation,” he said, adding that the anniversary provides a fitting moment to recognise the sacrifices of the working class in shaping the country’s history.
Ali highlighted the emergence of organized labour in the early 20th century, when workers began demanding fair wages and humane conditions, eventually giving rise to a strong trade union movement across Guyana and the wider Caribbean. He said collective action by workers helped drive political transformation, including expanded voting rights and greater participation in governance.
He also referenced the 1948 deaths of sugar workers, describing the incident as a turning point that intensified resistance against colonial rule and accelerated the push toward independence.
“Our nation owes an immense debt to its workers,” he said. “Their sacrifices secured not only improved conditions, but also the fundamental freedoms we now enjoy.”
At the same time, the President cautioned against divisions within the labour movement, both historically and in the present, urging stakeholders to embrace unity in addressing modern challenges.
He pointed to global pressures such as inflation, supply chain disruptions, technological change, climate impacts and geopolitical tensions as emerging threats to workers’ livelihoods. In response, he said the government is investing in digital transformation, healthcare, education, infrastructure and social services to improve quality of life.
Ali also called for a strengthened tripartite relationship among labour, employers and government, emphasizing cooperation over confrontation to safeguard workers’ interests and economic stability.
“The realities we face demand deeper collaboration and mutual respect,” he said. “By fostering a modern culture of industrial relations grounded in partnership, we can better protect workers and future-proof our economy.”
The President outlined a series of measures implemented to support workers, including an increase in the income tax threshold from $65,000 to $140,000 per month, tax relief for families, and adjustments to ease the burden on individuals holding second jobs.
He also noted that approximately 67,000 public sector employees benefited from a one-off cash grant in 2023, alongside a cumulative 46% wage increase across the public sector. Additional benefits included expanded allowances, housing support, and continued distribution of grants such as the “Because We Care” cash transfer.
Ali said investments in education, including free schooling at all levels, are aimed at empowering future generations and strengthening the working class over the long term.
“These initiatives reflect our sustained commitment to improving the welfare of Guyana’s workers,” he said.
As Guyana approaches its Diamond Jubilee, the President urged citizens to build on past achievements and work collectively toward a future defined by shared prosperity and opportunity.
“Happy May Day to all workers,” he said. “Solidarity forever.”