Dear Editor,
During the recent National Building Exposition, His Excellency President Irfaan Ali posed a direct question to a business leader of Comfort Sleep Inc: “What is his greatest problem in the business?” The answer, streamed live on the President’s Facebook Page, was as honest as it was revealing. The businessman stated that the primary challenge is the scarcity of Guyanese workers, and when available, absenteeism remains a persistent issue. As a result, he noted that his strategy has shifted towards employing Cuban and Venezuelan nationals, who demonstrate a strong work ethic and a willingness to work beyond regular hours, including Sundays.
This exchange highlights a critical challenge for Guyana’s future. While the Government has signaled its intention to develop a migration policy, the perception of reluctance persists, as concrete actions from Freedom House or State House remain awaited.
Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo has confirmed that the administration is prioritising a structured legal migration framework to address labour shortages while safeguarding national identity and security. But that promise was made over 2 years ago. President Ali has also stated that the Attorney General’s Office has completed a draft framework and is reviewing foreign laws to inform modern legislation. That statement was made over a year ago.
Therefore it is easy to understand why public confidence is hampered by a lack of clarity on timelines and consultation. Are we being played by the politicians while the businesses continue to suffer..
Elements of a Migration Policy
A comprehensive migration policy would balance labour needs with the protection of national interests. It would require:
1. Legal and Regulatory Framework: Defining the legal status, rights, and conditions for foreign workers.
2. Residency and Rights: Granting residency without voting rights is under consideration , though it is important to note that Commonwealth citizens are treated differently for voting purposes, as discussed below.
3. National Identification System: The electronic identification (E-ID) system is crucial for monitoring the population and ensuring accountability .
4. Enhanced Security and Monitoring: Integrating the E-ID system with a network of surveillance cameras would improve identification and public safety .
5. Workforce Planning: A modern labour ministry to conduct labour market analysis and issue international recruitment licences to vetted and qualified companies.
Understanding the Constitutional Context
Any migration policy must be considered alongside the constitutional provisions regarding voting rights. Article 59 of the Constitution states that “a Commonwealth citizen domiciled and resident in Guyana” is qualified to be an elector . The National Registration Act specifies that a person is eligible for registration if they are a “citizen of a Commonwealth Country living in Guyana one year or more”.
Risks and Mitigation
The policy is not without risks:
1. Displacement of Local Workers: The Government has assured that locals will receive first preference for jobs . The Labour Minister has stated that migrant labour will only complement the local workforce and does not pose a threat. Thus we should not invite more than 20% of our population from abroad to come and work in Guyana.
2. Social and Cultural Tensions: The Government intends to manage this by controlling legal rights and using the E-ID system to maintain a clear distinction between citizens and non-citizens .
3. National Security Threats: The E-ID system and biometrics are the primary tools to monitor all non-nationals and ensure accountability .
4. Strained Infrastructure: A structured approach would ideally be coordinated with infrastructure development plans to ensure public services can meet the demands of a growing population especially the schooling system.
The concerns raised by the business leader reflect a broader challenge: Guyana’s rapid economic growth demands a workforce that its current population cannot fully supply. The Government must act urgently to implement a comprehensive migration policy, ensuring that the benefits of growth are shared, while the risks are prudently managed. But to not act is to undermine the future success of this country.
Yours faithfully,
Surujdai Juglall
Discussion