The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) on September 24, 2009 submitted a proposal for a three year wage package for the years 2010, 2011 and 2012. The Union has over the year’s exercised considerable restraint and patience following the submission of these documents and has tirelessly sent several pieces of correspondence to the Government requesting the resolution of these matters. This was important since non-resolution affected the wellbeing of public employees and their families. Additionally, this destroyed the enlightened environment, which modern laws, conventions, regulations and practices are designed to facilitate.

Over the years and as recent as October 20, 2011, the Union has been meeting with Dr. Nanda Gopaul, Permanent Secretary, Office of the President, with responsibility for the Public Service Ministry. While there was movement on some matters, the sore issue that continues to plague the negotiating parties are the finalizing of discussions on salaries, wages and allowances. It has become very clear that the negotiations for salaries, wages and allowances at the bilateral level have reached an impasse. Thus, the Union has and continues to reject the arbitrary imposition of salaries and wages increases that has become so characteristic of the present administration.