Guards at the Public Works Security Department have used social media to make some serious allegations of mistreatment, bullying, and neglect which they say is currently taking place within their workplace

They have called on their Minister Maria Bird Browne to intervene in what has been described as a very upsetting and grave matter

The security officers claimed in their post that they are subjected to a very hostile environment including insults, verbal threats, false accusations, and a very careless attitude towards their general well-being

These men and women who did not put a name to the letter are accusing their female supervisor of abusing them, threatening and intimidating them

They also accused her of lying to their supervisors which has led to the victimization of many of them.

Their working condition is very poor, according to the officers, who claimed that they are being sent to various compounds without adequate shelter, exposing them to the elements, including rain and scorching sun.

“We are dealing with school, and I think officers should be stationary, except if a worker is on vacation, sick day, sick leave, etc.,” states the letter.

In their letter, the officers said they wanted to meet with Browne to express their concerns.

Country-Specific Highlights:

Several Caribbean nations exhibit distinctive growth patterns:

• Antigua and Barbuda: Expected to grow at 8.5% in 2023 and 8.2% in 2024, the nation’s tourism-dependent economy demonstrates resilience and adaptability.
• Guyana: The standout performer, Guyana, is projected to experience an exceptional growth rate of 39.2% in 2023, followed by a substantial but lower 28.9% in 2024. The country’s burgeoning oil and gas sector underpins this remarkable economic surge.
• Jamaica: Jamaica is forecasted to have a growth rate of 2.1% in 2023 and a marginal decline to 1.9% in 2024, reflecting a steady but measured economic trajectory.
• Trinidad and Tobago: This oil-rich nation anticipates a growth rate of 2.7% in 2023 and a slight decrease to 2.4% in 2024, as it navigates the challenges of global energy markets.

As Latin America and the Caribbean prepare for the years ahead, policymakers and businesses alike will need to navigate a diverse economic landscape, addressing both shared regional challenges and unique country-specific dynamics to foster sustainable growth.