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Ministry declares war on child labour
The Ministry of Labour has begun an intense public awareness crusade against child labour. The campaign, which is taking the form of advertisements, posters, bulletins and banners, was launched on Thursday in the Rupununi Room of the Hotel Tower. Minister of Labour, Manzoor Nadir, warned employers to become more au fait with the Labour Laws of Guyana.
“We urge employers to know the Labour Laws. Know with your hearts and with your heads those laws that govern the employment of children,” Minister Nadir advised.
The minister said the campaign will see rigorous nationwide implementation from Waini, in the north, to Crabwood Creek in the east, and Lethem in the south.
He said the campaign is necessary since Guyana signed on to Convention 182 of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which aims to reduce all forms of child labour.
“When we speak of child labour, we speak of all forms of child labour, and not just the worst forms of (this act),” the Labour Minister noted.
According to Minister Nadir, the national campaign is also designed to keep all children in school, at least up to the age of 15.
“In fact, the Laws of Guyana prevent people from employing anyone under the age of 15; and between 15 to 17 years, employers can only employ young people under certain conditions,” he pointed out.
The minister reiterated that, earlier in the year, the Ministry of Labour had mentioned three priority areas — safe workplace, employment, and the elimination of child labour.
“And now that we launch this national campaign, it will see us (promote) a series of television ads and public awareness messages, including posters and banners throughout our country,” the Labour Minister stressed.
Minister Nadir disclosed that several Labour officials are expected to complete inspections of over 4,000 worksites by the end of the year.
He said that not only will the Labour officers examine compliance with Labour Laws, but will pay particular emphasis on employment of young people and whether employers observe the Laws of Guyana with regards to youths.
Minister Nadir expressed delight that the private sector and the business community have joined the campaign and have pledged their support to eliminate child labour.
“We are pleased that the labour unions have joined in this effort to eradicate child labour from this society. We have a vibrant corps of young business leaders and labour activists who will speak to you about the eradication of child labour from Guyana,” the minister added.
He issued a plea to all employers, neighbours, relatives and workers to desist from employing young persons under the age of 15.
“Those of you who feel you are doing a good by giving them a job, so that they can earn some money, you are actually harming that child’s future.”
Minister Nadir said children should be given opportunity to acquire as much education as they possibly can, and perhaps even more importantly, enjoy their childhood.
“Children should be given an opportunity to commune at play among their colleagues, and to laugh and have an enjoyable childhood. Let us protect our children and eliminate child labour from Guyana,” Minister Nadir said.
Guyana joined the international community in observing World Day against Child Labour on June 12, with the launch of a national programme against child labour.
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