Few bakeries and florist opened in Guyana

Since 2006, the bakeries have not been authorized to open the 1^is may. Previously a ministerial exemption dating from May 23, 1986 tolerated an activity during this day normally public holidays for all.
In 2024, several bakers were sanctioned by the labor inspectorate. Finally after a long procedure, the merchants were released.

In Guyana where the law applies as elsewhere some establishments are open in the morning of 1^is may. This is the case of a bakery in Rémire-Montjoly which has the distinction of being always open on public holidays.
For this 1^e May, there were only six employees to run the store instead of twelve usually on weekdays. Each year, bakers around the law at the risk of a heavy fine, even if in reality, there is a strong tolerance of the administration because everyone is a winner. This is because Karla Varga explains, bakery manager:

“This day is placed under the sign of volunteer. The employees are paid double and they have a day of recovery in the year. There are many more volunteers moreover and moreover, they work from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m., so they can enjoy the afternoon, they are rather ready” …

Same situation in a Cayenne florist. The couple of bosses hold the shop and for their four employees, the day is unemployed. : “ Even if the turnover is not that of Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day, we remain open. ! “” Declares Didier Douglas, director of the flower store … Customers want to buy their touch of thrush on May 1 “.

The debate should clarify with a bill tabled by two senators in order to allow establishments already authorized to open Sunday to be able to do so on 1^is may. Two deputies plan to do the same.

The government is favorable to this measure which takes into account the wish of the bakers in particular. It is not the same for unions reminiscent that this compulsory rest day was obtained after many struggles. The employers are quite favorable to this relaxation within the framework of business agreements.