Regrettably the first people addressed whenever the issue of belt-tightening arises, even by normally balanced commentators who ought to know better, are the trade unions and the workers they represent.
No similar reference is made to other involved parties who may have claim on declining resources.
A recent example is with reference to the recent statements by the Prime Minister about the situation at Petrotrin, when he talked about the company's $20 billion debt and the stringencies which may be necessary.
No mention is made of other people who may have claim on declining revenues, who are better able to make adjustments and who, in any event, are more likely to take their money abroad, thus exacerbating the country's already straitened circumstances.
It is much too convenient to call upon workers,who have given their lives to their employment and whose commitment to the company cannot be questioned, to make concessions where others are not.
There was even a situation a few years ago when an expatriate CEO of a local company was seeking to implement decisions inimical to the best interest of the company and was supported by many citizens because he was the CEO and therefore more committed to company than ordinary workers.
He eventually left the company abruptly because he was prevented by the actions of the workers. So much for commitment!
In the scheme of things workers must be given equal importance as other claimants and should not be forced to take a subordinate position.
The benefits that derive to them redound to the benefit of the company and the country as a whole.
Karan Mahabirsingh
Carapichaima