On Friday, Aubrey Norton, the presidential candidate of the APNU, assured that there will be no job losses in the sugar industry as he unveiled plans to diversify the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) should his party form the next government.
Norton highlighted the significant job losses that occurred under the previous APNU+AFC government between 2017 and 2018, when thousands of sugar workers lost their jobs as the government attempted to “right-size” and diversify the industry for increased viability.
“Not one sugar worker will be fired,” Norton stated. He emphasized the goal of retraining sugar workers to engage in new ventures rather than cutting jobs. He acknowledged the historical context of estate closures, comparing it to actions taken by the PPP in the past.
Norton affirmed that his administration would not only retain existing jobs but also create new job opportunities and improve working conditions within the industry.
The APNU’s vision for revitalizing GuySuCo includes:
Housing Development
Aquaculture
Food Production
Norton expressed that GuySuCo should leverage its assets, such as land and workforce, to explore new business ventures beyond traditional agriculture. He envisions GuySuCo becoming a major player in housing development and other sectors, with proper investment in training and equipment.
In addition to sugar production, Norton mentioned the potential for producing ethanol, livestock feed, and co-generating electricity. He stated that his administration would consider public and private partnerships to ensure the corporation’s viability.
“If privatization is going to make it viable, we will consider it, but at this stage, we have not assessed that,” he noted.
Norton believes that with proposed reforms and investments, GuySuCo could transform into a net contributor to national revenue, rather than a drain on resources. He pointed out that in 2024, GuySuCo produced over 47,000 tons of sugar, reflecting a 21% shortfall in production.
Norton’s commitment to job security and diversification aims to reshape the future of the sugar industry in Guyana, prioritizing sustainable growth and economic stability for workers and the nation.
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