Union vital: Expert

 THE country is growing and creating wealth and it must be distributed equally among the workforce and the people, a trade union official says.

Arun Kumar, a specialist in workers activities with the International Labour Organisation, said workers’ rights were good for the country.

“When Papua New Guinea  workers have more money in their pockets, it benefits the economy. That’s why we need good wages, social security and certain standards in the workplace,” he said.

“If PNG as a country says it doesn’t care about workers, it doesn’t matter. 

“PNG will have some millionaires and lot of wealth that it produces will go out of the country and the locals will stay poor. 

“Unions have a role to play. Nobody is perfect, even unions. 

“But at least they should be raising the right demand.

“Union in Papua New Guinea is very necessary. 

“It’s one of the pillars that make sure of democratic rights. 

“They are a reflection of the society. 

“They are not just fighting for workers’ rights. They are development agencies. 

“And if they succeed, the country does better.

“Unions not only ask for better shares for workers but want a better system which is why they are not liked very much.”

He facilitated a workshop on Friday and Saturday last week on collective bargaining for decent work.