Disgruntled workers of the Breeding Unit of the Presto Praesto Youth Camp at Greig Street, Balmain, Couva, demonstrated yesterday morning.
Garvin Scott, spokesman for the angry workers, who are represented by the National Union of Government and Federated Workers (NUGFW), said word had reached workers that the breeding unit would be closed and the workers were to be sent home.
He said the facility is being operated by the Ministry of Youth Development and National Service.
He said, “We understand that the ministry has taken the decision to close down the centre (referring to the breeding unit). They have already closed down the Presto Praesto Youth Camp and the rest of the centres for renovation. We at the Balmain Unit in Grieg Street, Couva. We understood that on Monday, (Monday March 20, 2023) they took a decision to get rid of all the animals and the workers would be displaced. We also understand that workers at ten years and under (service) would have to go home. The ministry has not even consulted with the union or with the workers as to what is happening to the workers. We are ensuring that no workers will go home.”
He said there are around 48 workers at that facility. Scott said he wants Foster Cummings, the Minister of Youth Development and National Service, to come in and clear the air.
He said the unit rears livestock.
He claimed some workers had paid for animals since 2018 and were never reimbursed.
When contacted for comment, Cummings said, “The Government is in the process of conducting upgrade and refurbishment works to all youth facilities. Additionally, we have given significant focus to youth involvement in agriculture. All the current facilities will be reopened and there are plans to construct additional facilities in undeserved areas.”
