Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-02-21 00:05:00
The employees of Golden Veroleum Liberia (GVL) in Grand Kru County, southeast Liberia have been engaged in a daylong dialogue with various stakeholders in an attempt to address their series of concerns. Despite the efforts of the Grand Kru County Legislative Caucus and other officials, the aggrieved workers have refused to sign a resolution for calm to be restored to the concession area and have vowed to continue their go-slow.
The dialogue, which took place over two days, brought together the aggrieved workers of GVL, Workers Union, affected communities, local authorities, women, elders, youth, representatives from the National Bureau of Concession, and GVL executives, amongst others. The goal of the dialogue was to address the 13-count document presented by the aggrieved workers against the Management of Golden Veroleum Liberia.
Some of the key complaints include dissatisfaction with insurance companies, housing allowance, healthcare, housing facilities, education for employees’ dependents, transportation allowance, and the 100% payment for staffers’ bikes. The workers detailed their qualms against SAAR and SUNU insurance companies, stating that they have not received any benefits despite the payment of premiums and accidents that have occurred without compensation.
The employees also expressed concerns about the lack of proper healthcare facilities and services provided by the company. They highlighted the company’s failure to provide adequate medical facilities and services, including essential drugs, physicians, and medical doctors. Additionally, they raised issues with housing facilities, stating that 99% of field workers do not receive housing benefits despite management’s promise to provide housing units for them.
During the dialogue, the Grand Kru County Legislative Caucus acknowledged the workers’ grievances and promised to address their urgent concerns. They emphasized the importance of resolving these issues in a civil and polite manner and urged the GVL management to do the right thing for the employees.
In response, the GVL Vice President for strategy and stakeholder engagements, Elvis H. Morris, assured the aggrieved employees that the company would address their urgent concerns. He promised to recondition the clinics, provide more lab equipment, and employ a midwife. He also urged the workers to submit a letter with attached signatures to stop the payment of premiums to the insurance companies.
The employees remain committed to seeking a resolution to their concerns through dialogue and engagement with the company. Despite their refusal to sign a resolution for calm, they have shown a willingness to work towards finding a solution that addresses their grievances and improves their working conditions.
In conclusion, the ongoing dialogue between the aggrieved employees of GVL and various stakeholders demonstrates a concerted effort to address their concerns and find a resolution. The employees remain determined to pursue their demands for better working conditions and fair treatment, and it is essential for the GVL management to take their concerns seriously and work towards a mutually beneficial solution.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
