Budget 2026 balances today’s challenges and tomorrow’s priorities

Jan 31, 2026 Letters

Dear Editor,

The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), representing a wide cross-section of the working class across multiple sectors of the economy, formally endorses the 2026 National Budget.

FITUG welcomes the strong emphasis placed on direct cash transfers and income support measures that will tangibly improve the daily lives of workers, pensioners, and vulnerable households. Of particular note is the $100,000 cash grant to all Guyanese aged 18 and above, a measure that provides immediate, broad-based financial relief. This initiative, alongside the increase in the school-age child grant, the introduction of a school child transportation grant, the increase in old age pensions, the introduction of a pensioner transportation grant, and the increase in public assistance, represents a comprehensive approach to supporting families at every stage of life.

FITUG underscores that these direct transfers are separate and apart from, and in addition to, the Government’s substantial investments in healthcare, education, housing, water, and social services, which together aggregate to hundreds of billions of dollars. These parallel streams of spending demonstrate a deliberate strategy to combine immediate household relief with long-term national development.

The Federation also recognises the continued improvements to the income tax threshold, noting that the gradual adjustments over recent years have removed tens of thousands of workers from the tax net, placing billions of dollars in additional disposable income into the hands of workers and their families. FITUG notes that the 2026 income tax adjustment builds on earlier pro-worker tax measures, including the child grant, medical and life insurance tax relief, and enhanced mortgage interest relief, all of which collectively strengthen household financial resilience.

Further, FITUG highlights the anticipated reduction in electricity tariffs flowing from the Gas-to-Energy Project, which is expected to further enhance disposable income while improving national competitiveness. The Federation also acknowledges ongoing efforts to curtail imported cost-of-living increases, particularly in an uncertain global economic environment.

The 2026 National Budget reflects a clear focus on solving today’s challenges while simultaneously addressing tomorrow’s priorities. This balance between present needs and future planning is a significant testament to policies aimed at improving the well-being not only of the current generation of Guyanese but also of generations to come.

As a federation with a broad and diverse working-class membership, FITUG affirms that the measures contained in this Budget will touch the lives of all Guyanese—workers, families, pensioners, and young people alike. FITUG therefore stands in support of the 2026 National Budget and calls on stakeholders across society to work collectively to ensure its effective implementation for the benefit of the nation.

FITUG

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Budget 2026 balances today’s challenges and tomorrow’s priorities

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