Executive members of the Guyana Market Vendors’ Union (GMVU) and the United Minibus Union (UMU) today lent their support to the GTU on day five of the strike. These union representatives stood alongside droves of teachers, parents and public-spirited citizens.
Mr. Bertrand Thorne, the General Secretary of the Guyana Market Vendors Union highlighted that it was crucial to stand in solidarity with the teachers because one day the tables may be turned and will be reliant on the support of other unions. Further he stated that the teachers are not being unreasonable in their demands for better wages and working conditions.
Mr. Ron Andrews President of the United Minibus Union and the Guyana Market Venders’ Union expressed the ripple effect the strike action undertaken by the GTU has on the public transportation sector. He stated that a large cross section of the traveling population is made up of public sector employees like teachers and students. Further he underscored the fact that teachers utilize a greater part of their wages in commuting very after which very little is left to sustain their other needs.
Mr. Andrews asserted that his presence was necessary because of the vital role played by teachers in the moulding of the nation. He called on the government to meet with the GTU and have their differences resolved.