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.

International Youth Day and commencement of International Youth Year

On Thursday August 12, 2010, International Youth Day and the commencement of International Youth Year August 12, 2010 to August 11, 2011, the Guyana Public Service Union observed the occasion and also launched its proposed programme of activities for the year which was followed by a reception.

The event commenced with a short ceremony which was chaired by Ms. Ronella Hill, Assistant to the President/CEO and Co-Coordinator for the year’s programme. The objectives and list of activities were presented by Ms. Samantha Fedee`, Chairperson of the GPSU Youth Committee.

In addressing the gathering Ms. Fedee` stated that members of the Committee were proud of the United Nations resolution which aimed to “disseminate among young people the ideals of peace, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, solidarity and dedication to the objectives of progress and development”. She quoted President Franklin D. Roosevelt, former President of the United States, that “we cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future”, which is relevant to the aims of the GPSU to build, empower and enhance youths for the future.