BCGI meets with Department of Labour; agreed to re-engage dismissed employees

The Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI) is asking Guyanese to give the company the benefit of the doubt.

This request was thrown out today to the media, when representatives of the company and the Ministry of Social Protection-Department of Labour met.

According to Personnel and Human Safety Manager, Igor Tolpykin the company has invested heavily in the welfare of employees and to date all that has been reported about the company is negative.

Speaking on Union representation for employees, the Personnel Manager says “we (BCGI) never objected” to union representation as they are always welcome but negotiations cannot be in an aggressive manner.

Mr. Tolpykin also responded questions about the possible reinstatement of employees who were dismissed in 2009. He says three of these employees have been re-employed and on the question of a special package for those who have not or do not wish to return to the company, the personnel manager says this was never raised with him.

Meantime, Minister Keith Scott, has indicated to the media that the aluminum company assured him that it is prepared to re-engage the former employees as long as they meeting the required qualifications.

Minister Scott says he was also told that BCGI is fully committed to honouring the Laws of Guyana.