Caribbean Labour Ministers urged to focus on renewable energy, green jobs & social protection

The transition to renewable energy in Guyana and the Caribbean is a major factor for job creation.  Daren Pinard, Minister of State in the Ministry of Labour of the Commonwealth of Dominica, on Monday said the shift to renewable energy is necessary to create a sustainable future.

Pinard’s remarks were made at the 13th International Labour Organization (ILO) Meeting of Caribbean Labour Ministers, held at the Arthur Cung Conference Centre, Georgetown.

“Decent Work for Resilience: Securing the Future of Caribbean Labour,” is the theme of this year’s meeting. Labour Ministers, policymakers and social partners are in Guyana to discuss labour and employment issues with the objective of shaping the future of work in the region. The signing of the 3rd Decent Work Country Programme was also signed on Monday. This programme represents the tripartite commitment to develop a harmonious labour market.

Pinard noted that this year’s theme also sheds light on the areas of focus which can greatly improve the region’s job market and boost its ability to play a better role in responding to climate change. He said the shift to renewable energy in the Caribbean provides jobs that will greatly secure the futures of many persons.

“Picture a future with solar technologies and geothermal turbine engineers are among the most sought after jobs or professions in the Caribbean, where young people see their future not as something to fail but with excitement as something to shift with their hands, their ideas and their passion,” Pinard said.

He also noted that the use of renewable energy is an area that many countries in the regions are exploring. Converting from fossil fuels to renewable energy is part of climate-smart efforts to meet net zero by 2050.

During the launch ceremony for the areas of focus that will greatly impact the outcome of labour policies for Guyana, as well as those that will be adopted by other Caribbean countries, were discussed. Gilbert Houngbo, the Director-General of the ILO, said social justice in workplaces affects women among other vulnerable groups.

“This is a critical moment that calls for a renewed commitment to the core values that inspire the creation of justice, humanity and peace, and should guide us as we work towards a new social context. One that is based on social justice, equitable economic growth, solidarity and environmental protection,” Houngbo said, noting some of the key factors that must be addressed at the meeting.

Acknowledging the need for serious discussions and adoption of new and updated labour policies, Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton said there is immense focus on remigration and climate safety here.

Further expounding on climate safety, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips said Guyana is committed to promoting a greener and safer economy with emphasis on job security.

“As we move toward green economies, we must do so in ways that protect jobs, support communities and actively reduce inequality. A  just transition means shifting toward a sustainable low carbon economy without leaving workers or communities behind,” the Prime Minister said.

Guyana is investing heavily in renewable energy and this is through ways of solar powered electric vehicle charging stations, solar panels for hinterland communities and the massive gas-to-energy project.