30 April 2024 | Employment.
MESSAGE BY PRESIDENT WAVEL RAMKALAWAN ON THE OCCASION OF LABOUR DAY, 1ST MAY 2024 SOCIAL JUSTICE AND DECENT WORK FOR ALL
As our Nation observes Labour Day this year, I salute all workers for their role in nation building and their contribution towards our national development and progress.
Indeed, workers continue to play a critical role in the country’s progressive recovery from the pandemic economic crisis. The theme “Social justice and decent work for all” lays emphasis on the fact that social and economic success of the country will heavily depend on conducive and fair working conditions and inclusiveness of all our citizens.
As a Nation, we have a lot to be thankful for in terms of our strength and unity when the situation calls for such. Late last year, the industrial explosion heavily impacted many enterprises in an important economic location and disrupted the whole country. Yet, contrary to what could have been expected, practically no loss of jobs was recorded. Both workers and employers showed how resilient men and women of this proud country can be in the face of adversity by adapting to shocking circumstances and more importantly, in finding solutions.
Collectively, let us be mindful and supportive of our brothers and sisters who find it difficult to show resilience and who are not realizing their full employment potential. Despite our country having many job opportunities and a low national unemployment rate, unemployment amongst our youth remain high with a significant proportion of our labour force in informal employment. Empowerment of the population and a change of mind set towards work, therefore stays critical so that everyone can join the labour force and be part of the positive contributions.
On this commemorative occasion, my plea is for all actors in the world of work to come together and work in partnership and actively play their role in creating a conducive working environment leading to increased productivity and prosperity for all.
The government remains committed in its efforts for the creation of jobs and opportunities, to ensure gainful employment for all. The success stories of our various programmes are testimony that it is possible for our people to be trained, secure employment and earn a livelihood for themselves and their family.
Going forward, the future of work must move towards flexibility to address the constraints of women accessing work, digitalization that will allow for information to be more readily available for targeted strategies, and to reach out better to the youth to understand their needs. Even if it is encouraging to see so many young individuals seizing the opportunity to enter the world of work through existing programmes, we still have to do more.
I appeal to employers to ensure that the work environment is fair and safe for all workers regardless of their age, gender, race, colour, nationality, language, religion, disability, HIV status, sexual orientation, political opinion, trade union or other association. Every worker deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Equal opportunity for all must remain a daily mantra for our people. To the workers, I call on you to demonstrate commitment, integrity and productivity through hard work, perseverance and devotion.
In conclusion, I say a big thank you to all the men and women of our country who strive daily to maintain this country. To those who are retired, remember that the country still values your contribution over the years.
May this Labour Day inspire all to move towards creating a dignified work environment!
Happy Labour Day to all.
