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– Commission details employee benefits President of the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU),Kris Draper Red Wings Jersey, Patrick Yarde, yesterday expressed frustration over the selective handling of agreements between the Union and the Board of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) for increased wages and salaries, which workers have been demanding since last November.President of GPSU, Patrick Yarde, (first row, second from left) flanked by GPSU/GGMC membersGGMC workers recently took industrial action calling for a 35 percent increase in their wages and salaries. The action has intensified in the wake of prolonged negotiations.GPSU has blamed the industrial action on the management of GGMC which they say is responsible for the standoff. The Union is adamant that the GGMC board could help bring an end to the strike.In December, the Union managed to acquire an 8 per cent interim increase for workers but negotiations for 2013 and 2014 are yet to be finalised.While the GPSU president detailed measures adopted by the two sides,Darren Helm Red Wings Jersey, he reiterated his frustration of the board’s “selective approach” with recommendations agreed upon.Yarde explained that the Commission and the Union had formalized a joint committee which would examine all aspects of the approved recommendations. He remarked that the committee’s examination was very challenging and has not been completed.“There is now resistance to the continuation and completion of what was agreed to,” said Yarde,Olli Maatta Penguins Jersey, “thus giving rise to a dispute which resulted in GGMC workers taking industrial action late last year.”The GPSU President further explained that an agreement was subsequently brokered between the two sides.However,Carlos Vela Mexico Jersey, a breach in the agreement on the part of the GGMC board on issues outstanding for over four years,Henrik Lundqvist Rangers Jersey, which Yarde claims has unfairly benefitted managers, has once again resulted in GGMC workers resuming industrial action.“Workers felt discriminated against and abused since they are aware that some members of management have benefited from proposed changes while the majority remains outstanding,” said the GPSU President.Meanwhile, the GGMC has issued a statement disputing the unfair treatment that GPSU and GGMC workers are alleging. The statement further detailed the allowances, benefits and other welfare policies for employees.According to the GGMC statement, employees of the Commission become eligible to receive staff loans, vehicle loans,T.J. Oshie Capitals Jersey, union support, pension and medical scheme among other reimbursements. |
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