Analysts concerned about disparities in wages

RHONDOR DOWLAT

Senior Reporter

rhondor.dowlat@guardian.co.tt

Political analysts have expressed concern about the government’s handling of salary adjustments, highlighting the growing disparity between public officeholders and the working class.

Dr Shane Mohammed pointed to the swift acceptance of the Salaries Review Commission’s (SRC) recommendations for increases in salaries for government officials, contrasting it with the struggles of average citizens facing rising inflation, stagnant wages, and increasing utility bills.

“When public servants protested for better wages, they were told to accept four per cent or leave it,” Dr Mohammed observed. “Yet, the government seems eager to approve significant increases for itself, ignoring the burden this places on taxpayers. Isn’t it the taxpayers who fund these increases?”

He emphasized the widening gap between public officeholders and citizens reliant on collective bargaining, describing the government’s approach as lacking compassion. He also criticized its failure to address inflation, which continues to erode the purchasing power and quality of life for many citizens.

Dr Mohammed also noted the government’s neglect of critical sectors, particularly healthcare, where citizens often rely on crowdfunding for medical expenses.

“It’s disheartening that while public funds are allocated for salary increases for politicians, individuals in need of urgent medical attention are forced to turn to GoFundMe campaigns,” he said.

He accused Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley of acting out of entitlement, prioritizing personal gains over public welfare and warned that the government’s approach risks escalating protests and social unrest, endangering the country’s stability.

Dr Indira Rampersad, speaking in her capacity as a political analyst and trade unionist, provided an analysis of the public response.

“The public is understandably upset. While the working class is offered minimal increases, the Prime Minister is set to receive a 47 per cent salary hike. This creates a vast disparity, contributing to a growing gap between the government and citizens,” she explained.

Dr Rampersad said public dissatisfaction has already begun to manifest in protests, with more demonstrations expected.

“The only way to mitigate this fiasco is for the government to ensure equity by providing similar increases to the working class. This would demonstrate that they do not see themselves as superior or separate from the people they serve,” she said

She emphasized that such disparities could have political repercussions, especially as elections draw nearer.

Dr Rampersad clarified that her remarks were analytical, not critical, as she sought to balance her roles as a political scientist and trade unionist.

Both analysts agree that fostering equity is essential to bridging the gap between the government and citizens, warning that failure to do so could lead to long-term consequences for governance and public trust.

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