January 23, 2025
Representatives from various trade unions across Guyana have expressed strong support for the government’s 2025 budget, stating that it caters to both working-class citizens and ordinary Guyanese.
Their remarks came after the presentation of the budget on January 17, with many union leaders lauding the fiscal plan for its focus on improving conditions for workers.
In a roundtable discussion on the National Communications Network (NCN), union leaders shared their perspectives on how the 2025 fiscal plan would impact workers in Guyana.
Aslim Singh, General Secretary of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), highlighted the increased income tax threshold and the reduction in the personal income tax rate as key measures that directly benefit workers.
He emphasized that the budget’s provisions go beyond financial incentives, offering tangible improvements in workers’ overall conditions.
Sherwood Clarke, General Secretary of the Clerical and Commercial Workers’ Union (CCWU), echoed similar sentiments, noting that the budget offers renewed hope for the working class across the country.
He pointed out that the fiscal plan aims to provide greater economic stability, which would have significant benefits for all regions of Guyana.
Clarke also remarked that the budget fosters a more level playing field, which could promote further labor investments and advance social justice initiatives.
The 2025 budget, amounting to a record $1.382 trillion, represents a 20.6 percent increase over the previous year’s budget.
This ambitious fiscal framework is viewed by many as an essential step towards ensuring the continued development of Guyana’s economy, with a focus on benefiting its workforce and promoting national progress.
Trade union representatives agreed that the budget reflects a commitment to improving the livelihoods of working-class Guyanese while supporting the broader economic goals of the country.