Dear Editor,
As I continue to work in public communications, after speaking with the average citizen on a regular basis, I find that more people are becoming interested in the oil and gas sector. However, many are deeply concerned about inadequate compensation for their labor.
This fear stems from the fact that workers in Guyana often face a lack of adequate benefits and sometimes exploitation, particularly from international and overseas-based organizations. With the rapid expansion of the oil and gas industry, opportunities for large capital investors are increasing across various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, garment and textile production, services, healthcare, financial institutions, international education, and tourism. These industries have the potential to bring significant growth and development to Guyana.
I do acknowledge the efforts of companies who have maintained high standards and adherence to the laws of Guyana and fair treatment of workers providing high-quality benefits, but of course with oil and gas and other industries doing so well there is much room for improvement always.
However, for this progress to be meaningful, there must be a stronger financial system that safeguards the interests of the hardworking men and women contributing to the country’s economy. Long-term mismanagement must be addressed, and fair compensation, benefits, and protections must be implemented to ensure that workers are not left behind in the nation’s economic transformation.
Yours truly
Blane Bunbury
