Labour ministry recovered more than $31M for employees in 2024

Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton Tuesday said in excess of $31 million have been recovered on behalf of employees.

Speaking at a press conference at the ministry’s Brickdam, Georgetown office, he said even though some of the complaints have been dealt with through engagements with the companies, the issue still remains a concern for the ministry. A huge chunk of the complaints come from the security sector.

“We continue to see a large percent (24 per cent) of the workers in the private security sector…although we have managed to reduce this by two per cent,” Hamilton said.

In fact, over the four-year period since the government came into office, he said the Labour ministry, through deliberate work and effort, has been able to recover over $200 million for workers.

Generally, 2024 compared to 2023 saw a 25 per cent decline in complaints lodged with the ministry.

“This can be attributed to the increase in outreaches and seminars done by the labour department over the years,” the minister said.

Furthermore, for 2024, the ministry conducted 3,131 inspections at various industrial establishments across Guyana. The target was surpassed by 15 per cent, while inspection activities increased by 25 percent when compared to 2023.

It is estimated that approximately 19,000 workers were reached and benefited from these inspection activities.

A mobile app called “Labour Advice” is available on both Google Play Store and Apple Store since May 2024 to give workers and employers a user-friendly and convenient way to stay informed about their rights and seek assistance when necessary.