Gov’t efforts underway to improve labour policies, tackle inequalities faced by non-traditional workers

Informal work, closely linked with job inequalities, is a high priority for the Government of Guyana as it seeks to develop pathways for affected persons to receive benefits similar to those of traditionally employed workers.

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips made these remarks on Monday at the 13th International Labour Organization (ILO) Meeting of Caribbean Labour Ministers, held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre in Georgetown. He stated that the country’s Ministry of Labour is undertaking several initiatives to tackle labour inequalities.

The meeting, hosted by Guyana, saw Caribbean Labour Ministers addressing labour migration, social protection, skills development, occupational safety, and the formalisation of the informal economy.

Prime Minister Phillips highlighted that Guyana’s informal economy remains a critical component of economic activity across the Caribbean. He noted that while informal jobs provide essential income for families, the absence of protective policies makes it difficult for these workers to access social protection, healthcare benefits from insurance, and pensions. Additionally, training and upskilling opportunities remain limited.

In Guyana, it is estimated that 48 to 53 per cent of our labour force is engaged in informal work. Recognising the vulnerabilities this creates, the Ministry of Labour has made formalisation of work a key priority.

Through seminars, workshops, and inspections, the ministry has increased outreach to informal workers, particularly in underserved and hinterland regions, to promote awareness of labour laws and ensure compliance across sectors.

Prime Minister Phillips further noted that the ministry, in partnership with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), is working towards simplifying the business registration process, offering tax incentives, and encouraging enrolment in social security through the National Insurance Scheme. These measures aim to assist informal workers and small business entities in transitioning into the formal economy.