Labour expert Austine Gamey has criticised the government for failing to prioritize the provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to frontline workers, including mortuary staff, describing it as a “non-negotiable” issue.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Wednesday, he expressed solidarity with workers who have been forced to strike due to unsafe working conditions and unpaid salary arrears.

Mr Gamey was emphatic about the need for the government to provide PPEs to ensure the safety of workers in high-risk environments.

“PPE matters are non-negotiable. PPEs are not things that should be joked with at all,” he said, about the ongoing grievances of mortuary workers who have announced a nationwide strike.r

He also questioned the effectiveness of the Labor Inspection Division of the Ministry of Employment and Labor Relations, which is tasked with ensuring that safety standards, including the provision of PPEs, are met.

“What is the work of the Labor Inspection Division of the Ministry of Employment? They are supposed to ensure that these things are done without being told,” he added.

While acknowledging the country’s economic challenges, Gamey emphasized that safety and labour issues should not be compromised.

“We are confronted with the situation, but we must find a solution,” he urged.

He also reflected on the precarious financial situation in the country, saying, “The economic circumstance is not because people are just talking about it. It’s real, staring at our faces.”

Gamey called on the government to devise practical solutions to address workers’ grievances rather than postponing action due to budget constraints.

“We cannot afford to delay these matters. Workers’ lives and livelihoods are at stake,” he warned.

The labour consultant also expressed concern over the government’s reluctance to engage with unions, citing the upcoming elections as a major distraction.

“It seems as if even the ability to have meetings has become burdensome for the employer,” Gamey lamented.

He added that key decision-makers, including ministers and deputies, are more focused on campaigning than resolving critical labour issues.