Vice President Jagdeo Defends Government Plan to Import Nurses from Bangladesh Assures Equal Pay

Vice President Jagdeo Defends Government Plan to Import Nurses from Bangladesh Assures Equal Pay

Vice President Jagdeo Defends Government Plan to Import Nurses from Bangladesh Assures Equal Pay

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo stood firm on Thursday in defense of the government’s decision to import 500 nurses from Bangladesh, asserting that imported workers for the public sector will receive the same salaries and wages as Guyanese nationals. His remarks came in response to allegations by the APNU opposition that foreign workers would receive higher pay.

Addressing concerns during a party press conference, Vice President Jagdeo labeled claims of disparate pay as “patently false” and based on conjecture. He emphasized that the conditions of service for all recruits from abroad would be comparable to those of Guyanese workers, ensuring equitable treatment across the board.

In February, the government enlisted the assistance of Sigma Engineers Ltd., a Bangladeshi agency, to facilitate the recruitment of healthcare workers from Bangladesh. However, as of now, no personnel have been recruited through this agency, as shortages are being temporarily addressed by Cuban personnel.

Vice President Jagdeo underscored the urgent need for additional healthcare workers, citing ongoing construction of 12 hospitals and the existing shortages in both public and private sectors. He emphasized the necessity of filling these vacancies to ensure adequate staffing levels in healthcare facilities.

Furthermore, Vice President Jagdeo highlighted the historical progress made in wages, salaries, and conditions of service under the PPP/C administration, contrasting it with the track record of the PNC-led opposition. He criticized what he deemed “crocodile tears” from the opposition, emphasizing their purported lack of genuine concern for public servants.

In conclusion, Vice President Jagdeo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equitable treatment for all workers, both domestic and foreign, in the public sector. He reiterated the imperative of addressing staffing shortages to meet the healthcare needs of the nation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining fair and transparent recruitment practices.

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