GPSU lists labour rights, public sector reform, economic inclusion, and social justice as foundational pillars of Caribbean prosperity

Jul 08, 2025 Letters

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Dear Editor,

Kaieteur News – The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) joins communities across the Caribbean in celebrating the 52nd Anniversary of the establishment of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and in honouring the cultural richness, unity, and enduring spirit that bind us together as one region.

The GPSU also extends heartfelt congratulations to Dr. The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MP, Prime Minister of Jamaica, on his assumption of the CARICOM Chairmanship, effective July 1, 2025. In his remarks, Prime Minister Holness reminded us: “CARICOM’s distinction as the oldest surviving integration movement among developing countries is worthy of celebration and commendation.” He also stated that “We are stronger together, capable of overcoming adversity and achieving great progress.”

We commend his bold and visionary leadership, particularly his emphasis on youth empowerment, which aligns seamlessly with the region’s commitment to inclusive growth and transformative development. In a special engagement preceding the 49th Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government, scheduled to take place in Montego Bay, Jamaica, from July 6–8, 2025, Prime Minister Holness placed youth—who comprise nearly 60% of the CARICOM population, at the center of the region’s development agenda. He described them as the “architects of the future” and called on them to become “co-creators of the Region’s progress.” He emphasized their pivotal role in shaping the Caribbean of tomorrow: “You are the innovators who will create new industries, the entrepreneurs who will define our economies, and the leaders who will advocate for climate justice and sustainability.” He further challenged young people to: “Remain bold, confident, and visionary to create a region where ideas are valued, contributions are celebrated, and your future is secured.” He also assured them:“We will not just listen to your voices; we will act on your ideas.”

His message is clear: the future of the Caribbean depends on how we respect, educate, engage, and empower our young people, and that a secure and sustainable future for our region can only be achieved through coordinated efforts. This vision aligns fully with GPSU’s own advocacy for investment in Quality Public Services, Education, and Decent Employment, as we support the next generation in building a strong and promising future.

This commitment also aligns with the foundational mission of the Caribbean Public Services Association; a regional organization rooted in the same spirit of cooperation and integration that gave rise to CARICOM. As a founding member, the GPSU continues to advocate for regional solidarity and emphasizes the ongoing need for a unified voice representing Public Sector Workers across the Caribbean. While the dynamics of national representations may evolve, the GPSU remains steadfast in its commitment to the principles that unite us, safeguarding labour rights, advancing professional development, empowering youths, and fostering inclusive governance, ensuring that these priorities are kept at the forefront securing sustainable regional advancement.

As a union, we also underscore the significance of regional institutions established under CARICOM, including the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), not only as the legal guardian of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) but also as a defender of the rights, mobility, and protection of workers across borders. The CCJ’s rulings have significantly strengthened the legal and institutional frameworks within which labour unions operate, reinforcing the principles of fairness, equity, and accountability that lie at the heart of Caribbean Trade Unionism.

We further reassert the message of CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett, who emphasized that this year’s theme “People, Partnerships, Prosperity: Promoting a Secure and Sustainable Future”, reflects CARICOM’s strategic focus on safeguarding the well-being of both current and future generations. The 49th Heads of Government Meeting, 2025, will address some of the most urgent challenges of our time: security, food systems, climate change, and shifting geopolitical dynamics. These challenges are interrelated and significantly influence the daily lives, stability, and economic conditions of CARICOM citizens.

As we mark CARICOM Day 2025, the GPSU reaffirms its commitment to advancing youth engagement and workforce readiness through targeted public service training and innovation. We remain dedicated to promoting food security, confronting climate challenges facing our region, and strengthening regional safety through sound governance and cross-border collaboration.

The GPSU continues to advocate for labour rights, public sector reform, economic inclusion, and social justice as foundational pillars of Caribbean Prosperity. We actively support the strengthening of partnerships between governments, trade unions, and civil societies to shape inclusive, future-oriented policies. We are resolute in reinforcing the vital role of Public Servants and Trade Unions in realizing the broader CARICOM vision for a unified, secured, and prosperous region.

As one of the voices of labour in the region, the Guyana Public Service Union believes that CARICOM Day observance is symbolic and represents our shared destiny as Caribbean people. It reminds us that the success of our region lies not in nostalgia, but in our collective capacity to build, reform, and thrive together through unity, purposeful action, and transformation, guided by the principles embedded in sustainable and inclusive growth.

Let us embrace this day as a call to leadership at all levels, especially among our youth, and as an opportunity to deepen our partnerships, protect our shared future, and advance the Caribbean integration dream for generations to come.

Regards,

Guyana Public Service Union

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• Andrew Holness, Caribbean prosperity, economic inclusion, Guyana Public Service Union, labour rights, public sector reform

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